Catawba Nation Marks Milestone with Two Kings Casino Resort Phase Opening

The Catawba Nation opened the first major phase of its Two Kings Casino Resort on May 21 2026 in Kings Mountain North Carolina near Charlotte and Interstate 85 and this development replaced a temporary gaming facility that had operated since 2021. Construction on the larger project continues with the permanent casino floor expected in spring 2027 and full completion including a 24-story hotel targeted for 2027 while the entire undertaking projects employment for between 2,000 and 2,200 people according to project updates from industry sources. This introductory casino now features over 1,300 slot machines along with electronic gaming tables traditional table games sports betting kiosks a restaurant and bar areas; the setup provides a substantial upgrade from the earlier temporary operation yet remains part of the broader resort buildout that will expand significantly over the coming months. People familiar with the timeline note how the May 21 date aligns with the shift away from the interim site and observers point out that the location benefits from proximity to major transportation routes which supports visitor access from surrounding regions.

Background on the Temporary Facility Transition

The temporary gaming facility had served as an initial foothold for the Catawba Nation's operations in the area since 2021 and its replacement marks a clear progression in scale and amenities. Data from project announcements indicates the new phase incorporates a mix of gaming options that address both electronic and live play preferences while adding dining and beverage services in one location. Those tracking the development highlight how the transition maintains continuity for existing patrons even as the footprint grows and this approach allows operations to scale without full interruption during the larger construction period. Construction timelines show the permanent casino floor arriving in spring 2027 which will further enhance the gaming space before the 24-story hotel brings the resort to its intended completion later that same year. Employment projections range from 2,000 to 2,200 positions across the full resort which reflects the economic footprint expected once all phases reach operation.

Key Features of the Initial Casino Phase

Over 1,300 slot machines form the core of the new gaming area while electronic gaming tables complement them with traditional table games and sports betting kiosks rounding out the options. A restaurant and bar areas provide on-site amenities that support extended visits and these elements together create a self-contained experience within the introductory phase. The layout integrates these components in a manner that builds on the temporary facility's foundation yet introduces greater variety and capacity. Project details confirm the sports betting kiosks align with regional availability while the table games offer both electronic and live formats to accommodate different player preferences. Bar areas and the restaurant sit adjacent to the gaming sections which streamlines access for visitors moving between activities.

Ongoing Construction and Future Milestones

Work on the larger 1 to 1.25 billion dollar resort continues beyond this opening phase and the permanent casino floor remains scheduled for spring 2027. Full completion incorporating the 24-story hotel stands targeted for 2027 with the phased approach allowing incremental revenue generation during the build. Employment figures of 2,000 to 2,200 positions cover the complete facility once operational and these roles span gaming hospitality and support functions according to the development outline. The site near Interstate 85 and Charlotte positions the resort for regional draw while the multi-year timeline reflects standard large-scale construction pacing. Updates from the project indicate steady progress on structural elements that will support the expanded gaming floor and hotel tower in sequence.

Employment and Economic Context

Projected staffing levels between 2,000 and 2,200 people underscore the scale of operations once the resort reaches full capacity. These positions include roles in gaming management food service and maintenance which together support daily functions across the property. The transition from the 2021 temporary site to this phase and onward to the 2027 milestones provides a measured expansion path that aligns workforce growth with facility readiness.

Conclusion

The May 21 2026 opening of the first major phase at Two Kings Casino Resort establishes a new operational baseline for the Catawba Nation's project in Kings Mountain. With over 1,300 slot machines electronic and traditional table games sports betting kiosks plus dining facilities now in place the development replaces the prior temporary setup and sets the stage for the permanent floor in spring 2027 followed by the full resort including the 24-story hotel by the end of that year. Employment projections of 2,000 to 2,200 positions accompany these milestones while construction on the 1 to 1.25 billion dollar investment proceeds on schedule.