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Will Rogers Downs Undergoing Extensive Renovations Slated For Spring Completion
A rendering of the entry to Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs.

© Will Rogers Downs
Will Rogers Downs Undergoing Extensive Renovations Slated For Spring Completion

CLAREMORE, OK—AUGUST 23, 2016— Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs is undergoing an extensive renovation to provide guests an even better entertainment experience once it’s completed in the spring. <

Overall, more than 43,000 square feet of renovations are occurring inside the casino. Construction is underway and slated for completion by April 2017 at a cost of $3.5 million.

"We have very loyal guests who enjoy visiting us for live racing, live entertainment and gaming," said Rusty Stamps, general manager of Will Rogers Downs. "We strive to provide a high-quality experience at all our casinos and felt it was the right time to enhance the experience at Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs."

The gaming floor will continue to offer 250 electronic games in a new location on the south side of the casino. The new layout will offer a more cohesive gaming experience for guests and create the opportunity to introduce some game variety.

The popular simulcast viewing area will be relocated to the northwest corner of the casino. It will feature numerous large screen TVs and seating for more than 100 racing fans. The Horseshoe banquet space will allow for 150 additional race fans during major events like the Kentucky Derby. There will also be an indoor paddock observation area that highlights the new simulcast room.


A rendering of the restaurant at Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs. © Will Rogers Downs
When it comes to live entertainment in Claremore, the Dog Iron Saloon is the area’s most popular spot. It will receive VIP treatment with a new bar, new dance floor and new stage area, decorated with country and western accessories.

The newest addition to the casino will be the Dog Iron Grill. It will feature two seating areas with room for nearly 90 patrons near the main entrance of the casino.

"Cherokee Nation Entertainment is the market leader for gaming and live entertainment," said Shawn Slaton, CEO of Cherokee Nation Businesses. "We are committed to providing our guests an exciting experience at Will Rogers Downs, while employing 200 local residents and maintaining great partnerships that benefit the local communities."

Construction began in June on a new sanitary sewer line that eliminates the outdated lagoon system near the track. The project is a joint effort with the city of Claremore that will connect to the city’s sanitary sewer line near the entrance to the Will Rogers Turnpike. It will provide opportunities for rural customers and Justus-Tiawah School to connect to the line. It is slated for completion in January 2017.

Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs opened December 2005. It features six months of live horse racing comprised of a spring Thoroughbred meet and fall Quarter Horse meet. Simulcast racing from around the world are broadcast year round inside the casino.

Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs is located 3 miles east of Claremore on Highway 20. For more information, visit www