The facility will be located on Queen Elizabeth II Highway, between Highways 611 and 613, and is expected to open in late 2023.

The casino and travel resort will have a number of features and amenities, including a restaurant/lounge, and separate gas station, complete with two electric vehicle charging stations. Phase Two of the project includes the Bear Hills Gathering and Performance space, an open-air amphitheatre-type area with various seating areas that are accessible for persons with disabilities. Travellers and families will be able to enjoy our performance/stage area, find place to eat or just take a break from their travels.  Along with green building components, the design will limit the wind, highway noise and naturally moderate the temperature within the space creating a relaxing visitor atmosphere.

“We want guests to know that they are in Louis Bull Tribal Territory and use this as an opportunity to educate them about our culture, our history and our people’s potential,” said Chief Desmond Bull. “As well, we are pleased that a number of jobs will be created during construction and operation of the casino. Economic development is very important to us and our people.”

Bear Hills Casino and Travel Resort will incorporate environmentally-sustainable infrastructure such as, rain collection, grey water systems, heat recovery, and more.

“We want to offer an excellent customer experience while also respecting the land, water and air,” said Gordon Rauscher, president and CEO of Bear Hills. “This is a forward-looking project that reduces our environmental impact.”

Current work underway includes soil remediation near the former truck stop site.

“We are removing the previous truck stop infrastructure, but leaving some elements that we can work into our new project,” said Mr. Rauscher. “The cinder block building and surrounding area, for example, will be repurposed for the new gas station and marketplace that will be located on the property.”

“This project is so much more than just a casino gaming floor. We will provide a stop for travellers with food, gas and entertainment, that also has 24-hour security staff onsite who are trained in First Aid for people who need these services on a long stretch of the QE2.”

For interviews, please contact Sue Heuman, sueh@focuscom.ca