In May 2021, Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana debuted as a stand-alone gambling establishment. The Seminole Tribe of Florida owns and operates the property, which is expected to get a $100 million convention center and on-site hotel in the upcoming years.
Gary, Indiana was chosen by the Lake County Board of Commissioners in May to host the county's new convention center complex, defeating Hobart's bid. In their bid for the convention center, Hard Rock and the City of Gary committed $100 million over 20 years.
An ordinance proposed this week by the Gary Common Council would mandate that Hard Rock Northern Indiana pay the local council $1.5 million a year. According to the law, the Common Council would then contribute an additional $3.5 million and turn in the annual funds to the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority by August 31.
Local casino taxes would be used to pay the city's share. Last year, Hard Rock Northern Indiana paid over $55 million in municipal and state gaming taxes.
This year, construction might begin
The State of Indiana would pay for the Lake County Convention Center's initial $100 million in financing if the Gary Common Council ordinance is approved as planned. The project would get $100 million in gaming taxes from the state, which would be repaid over a 20-year period.
A 40K-square-foot exhibition hall and an 18K-square-foot ballroom would be part of the 145K-square-foot complex. Prefunction amenities, such as restrooms, kitchens, mechanical/electrical rooms, and other back-of-house support, surround both adaptable and convertible areas.
A brand-new, 300-room hotel at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana would be attached to the convention center. Two more hotels with a total of 500 keys and a West End conference Center are potential future additions to the conference center grounds.
"This is a tremendous moment for Lake County. Together, we have the chance to create a world-class destination that generates economic opportunity, creates jobs, drives tourism, and supports local businesses,” Matt Schuffert, president of Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, said in May after the bid was picked.
“Our vision has always been about creating strong economic opportunities for our community,” added Gary Mayor Eddie Melton.
At the time, Melton stated that work could start before the year ended. It is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
Economic Producer
According to Gary officials, the convention center will contribute to the Indiana city's ongoing economic recovery, along with the Hard Rock Casino. Gary was once a prosperous city with steel mills, but after its economy collapsed in the 1970s, it has since become notorious for crime, poverty, and degradation.
"By capitalizing on the draw of Northwest Indiana’s leading tourist attraction, this project will further boost tourism, create jobs, generate opportunities for local vendors, and contribute to long-term economic growth,” the Lake County Convention Center website reads.
Gary was the birthplace and upbringing of Michael Jackson, his younger sister Janet, and his other siblings. The Jacksons' cottage was 672 square feet.