Construction of Arizona hotel-casino hits milestone

CHANDLER, Arizona -- As reported by The Arizona Republic: "The Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, under construction on Interstate 10 south of Ahwatukee and due to open at the end of next year, will bring 750 new jobs to the area, the owners say.

"'The job creation is going to be nothing short of astonishing,' director of operations Paul Jarosik said this week at the topping off that celebrated the last beam being put in place on the hotel's 10th floor.

"Officials with the Gila River Indian Community, the owner of the project, say the jobs will mean an infusion of more than $15 million in payroll into the area - $20 million plus when tips are counted. 'This is going to be another jewel in the crown of the community,' said Dale Enos, president of the board of Gila River Casinos.

"The community wants to lure not only gamers but regional conferences and people in search of entertainment and dining.

"The Valley's first Shula's Steakhouse will open on the site; the restaurant chain is owned by legendary pro football coach Don Shula. Another restaurant will be an expansion of Scottsdale's Ling and Louie's Asian Grill..."