Construction Underway For Catawba Nation’s Two Kings Casino Resort

CLEVELAND CO., N.C. – “It seemed like it never was going to happen because it takes so many years trying to get this to this point. And we’re finally here, so we really can’t wait,” says Catawba Co. resident Robert Keese. Hundreds gathered in Kings Mountain on Friday for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Catawba Two Kings Casino Resort. Members of the Catawba Nation, as well as local and state leaders were on hand for the ceremony. Catawba Nation Chief Brian Harris says the Las Vegas-style casino will not only benefit Cleveland County, but the surrounding areas as well. Harris says, “It’s going to be a premier destination for many of folks around, uh, this area, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia.”

The casino is about a 35 minute drive from Charlotte. It sits off of Dixon School Road, which is exit five off of 85. Once complete, the $700 million project will feature 4,300 games, a 400 room hotel, 5 restaurants & 6 bars. It will also bring 2,200 jobs to the area.

The newly elected Kings Mountain Mayor Rob Wagman praised Chief Harris for being able to move the project forward, saying it is the culmination of ongoing talks between the city of Kings Mountain and the Catawba Nation. Wagman says, “I think the key thing that he does very well is communicate. And as long as he does that, you’re going to see an incredibly successful venture.”

Donald Trump, Junior was also in attendance for the special occasion. He told WCCB, “I’ve been friends with some of the guys that (contractor) Aaron Thomas from the Lumbees, as a buddy of mine for over eight years, did a lot with them. Obviously it’s a huge project for North Carolina, so just supporting my friends.”

Officials have not said when the project is expected to be finished. The plan right now is for the first phase of the project to open to the public in 2026.