The Shinnecock Indian Nation has announced its plans for the casino it intends to build on its Southampton land, which will be called Shinnecock Casino Hamptons.

The Shinnecock Council of Trustees shared a schedule for building the gaming facility, as well as an overview of the amenities the facility will offer.

“As we have seen with members of Tribal Nations, casinos provide an opportunity to lift our members from adversity,” said the Shinnecock Council of Trustees.  “Our ancestral lands were taken from us many years ago and New York State has refused to meet with us regarding stolen land claims that were filed over many decades. We have tried to resolve these issues over the last decade by proposing to find more suitable locations on Long Island, but were rebuffed. We have waited long enough and have decided to proceed here on our Territory.”

The Shinnecock Nation received approval last summer from the National Indian Gaming Commission to operate a Class II casino.

The trustees confirmed the Shinnecock association with Tri State Partners to assist with construction and operation of the casino.

 The construction process will begin in the summer of 2021.

“Our research, which is ongoing, indicates the Casino will be a boost for tourism here on the East End of Long Island,” the Trustees said.  “And while the summer months will be the busiest months of the year for us, working with Tri State we will attract visitors during the rest of the year as well.”

Games will include a variety of casino games, as well as Class II video terminals.

In addition, the Shinnecock Nation and Tri State are in discussions with restaurant providers to provide a range of food options for guests. Tri State is also exploring appropriate right-sized venues within the casino for entertainment.

The Shinnecock Nation Trustee was federally recognized as a tribe in 2010 and has made several attempts to open a casino since.