JAMUL, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--After more than 20 years of struggle to become economically independent, Jamul Indian Village (JIV) of California, will open Hollywood Casino Jamul – San Diego to the public on Monday, October 10, 2016.
The announcement follows the Tribe’s final regulatory approval from the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC).
“Our dream is finally becoming a reality,” said Erica Pinto, chairwoman of Jamul Indian Village. “I am so grateful for everyone who has helped make this possible for our people, including current and previous Tribal Councils of Jamul Indian Village, our developers Penn National Gaming and the many professionals we've had the pleasure of working with along the way."
The casino project provides JIV opportunities and funding to educate its members and provide housing and healthcare. These benefits are not limited to the Tribe and its reservation. JIV agreed to provide more than $90 million in funding for fire, life safety and public safety for San Diego County over the next 20 years. JIV also expects to provide $23 million for road and transportation improvements near the gaming facility.
“The Tribe maintains a longstanding commitment to the community,” said Pinto. “We are proud to fund roadway improvements and other essential services to make our community safer. These efforts are meaningful and important for our Tribe and our neighbors.”
JIV retained Penn National Gaming, Inc. to develop and serve as manager of the gaming facility. Located on sovereign Tribal land on State Route 94 approximately 20 miles from downtown San Diego, Hollywood Casino Jamul – San Diego will feature 1,700 slot machines, 43 live table games and eight dining and entertainment venues, including San Diego legend Tony Gwynn’s first signature restaurant, Tony Gwynn’s Sports Pub. The project created more than 1,200 construction jobs and 1,000 local, permanent jobs.
“It has been over two decades of grit and determination to get to this day,” said Tribal Vice Chairman Kenneth Meza. “We extend our gratitude to the Tribal leaders in San Diego County who have supported us in our dream. We will now be able to provide for our members. The future is bright for Jamul Indian Village.”
About Jamul Indian Village
The Kumeyaay Nation of Southern California can be traced back 12,000 years with first European contact occurring at San Diego Bay in 1524. JIV, one of 13 bands of the Kumeyaay Nation federally recognized as a sovereign nation, traces its roots to these natives. JIV strives to provide a greater quality of life for its people. Providing educational opportunities, health care and sufficient housing today will open the doors of tomorrow.
About Hollywood Casino Jamul-San Diego
Hollywood Casino Jamul-San Diego is located approximately 20 miles east of downtown San Diego off State Route 94. The facility will feature approximately 1,700 slot machines and 43 live table games along with multiple dining and entertainment options, including the first ever Tony Gwynn’s Sports Pub, and an eight-story below ground parking garage that accommodates over 1,800 vehicles.
