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Gitxaala Enterprises reopened the Chances Casino in Prince Rupert in Northern B.C. as part of a major redevelopment plan, set to combine Chances and the Crest Hotel with a proposed spa.
The company said the casino, hotel, and spa proposal is intended to form “Northern B.C.’s premier resort destination.”
“It means we no longer are just a gateway to somewhere else, because that’s how a lot of people view Prince Rupert,” said Blair Mirau, director of business development for Gitxaala Enterprises.
“It’s where you have to go to catch the ferry to Haida Gwaii or to Vancouver Island, driving up to the Alaska Highway, accessing northern B.C. as a transportation gateway. But we think that if we do this correctly, we can become a destination unto ourselves,” Mirau added.
Gitxaala Enterprises has finalized two land agreements connected to the project, including the purchase of the laneway between the casino and hotel properties and the casino parking lot.
The reopened casino includes new gaming chairs, slot machines, carpets, and floors. The refurbishment program forms part of a longer-term development strategy tied to the resort concept.
At the Crest Convention Center, the commercial kitchen has also undergone renovations featuring a design inspired by the surrounding landscape.
Since acquiring the casino in February last year, Gitxaala Enterprises and British Columbia Lottery Corporation have jointly invested more than $2 million into improvements at the property.
Mirau said the waterfront hotel and casino currently employs about 150 people. The company expects another 10 to 15 jobs under the long-term development plan.
According to the British Columbia Lottery Corporation, nearly $8 million in gambling revenue has been shared with the city. Last year, almost $500,000 was allocated by the municipality to arts and culture initiatives and community programs.
Mirau said the connection between the Gitxaala Nation and the local area would distinguish the resort project from chain hotel operations.
“That connection to place is extremely important, and it’s not something that you’re ever going to experience with the chain hotel,” he said.
Gitxaala Enterprises has acquired several properties in Prince Rupert in recent years, including the Crest Hotel, through efforts aimed at creating economic opportunities for the community.
“The investments we are making here are about building a strong future for our people, creating opportunities for our youth, and ensuring our presence and leadership are reflected throughout our territory,” said company board chair and Elected Chief Linda Innes (Lou Ga Gwelks).