It’s been a decade since the Snoqualmie Tribe opened the Snoqualmie Casino. In 2008 – during the turmoil and uncertainty of an economic recession – the casino opened its doors on a hillside overlooking the Snoqualmie Valley. The building was a departure from other nearby tribal casinos and received praise for its high-end design, views and restaurants.
The opening of the Snoqualmie Casino was the result of decades of work. Having lost its federal recognition in 1953 and finally regaining it in 1999 from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe said nothing could mean more than creating financial security and access to resources, services, education and career opportunities for their members and families – something it achieved through gaming operations.
Over the past ten years, the Snoqualmie Casino became the Valley’s largest employer – providing more than 1,000 jobs – and according to a press, also became known for its sophistication in a crowded gaming market. This year the casino had a new achievement: being recognized as one of Washington’s Best Workplaces (250+ full-time employee category) in the Puget Sound Business Journal’s annual survey.
“We are very fortunate to work for an employer who cares so deeply about our community and the Snoqualmie Valley,” said Brian Decorah, Snoqualmie Casino President and CEO. “The experience we provide to each guest is a direct reflection of the Snoqualmie Tribe. It is because of this, that we are relentless in our efforts to improve the property and in providing a signature experience for our guests.”
The casino underwent four large-scale renovations in its tenth year which began last March. Mist Bar underwent a big redesign, which included a programmable tiered LED lighting structure; a fully-enclosed non-smoking slots room opened; and the Snoqualmie Café and Deli opened in October to offer a quick-serve 24/7 dining option.
The final big upgrade project opened earlier this month on the day of the casino’s 10th Anniversary: a new Private Gaming Salon and a semi-private table game room for VIPs and celebrities. The Private Gaming Salon also includes an electrochromic glass wall that takes visibility to from transparent to opaque for privacy.
Decorah said, “All of these renovations are part of our vision to maintain our award-winning property as the premier gaming destination in the Northwest. We are extremely proud of our property and the level of service that our guests have come to expect from Snoqualmie Casino over our first decade of operation.”
According to a press release, in its first ten years, Snoqualmie Casino gave away more than $645 million in player jackpots, dealt approximately a quarter-million blackjacks, gave away 100 vehicles, paid out over $500 million in salaries and benefits and employed over 5,200 people.
Currently the casino has 174 employees that have worked at the property since it opened. The casino said it spends approximately $7 million annually with local contractors and remains active in the community, with several executives sitting on local boards that serve the community.
