Proposed Columbia Gorge casino, Casino development site in Cascade Locks, Oregon
The Columbia Gorge casino was a proposed development on 60 acres of industrial land near the Columbia River with plans for 250 hotel rooms and gaming facilities. The site was located within a protected scenic area designated as a National Scenic Area.
The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs began planning casino development in 1999, exploring various locations throughout the region. The project was ultimately abandoned in 2013 as circumstances changed and support diminished.
The proposal sparked discussions between tribal sovereignty interests, environmental preservation needs, and local economic development within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
The planned site sat about 40 minutes from Portland and would have been easily accessible to visitors from the city. Federal approval from state officials was required for the project to move forward, which ultimately did not happen.
The proposal created unexpected political alliances that brought together environmental groups, competing tribes, and business associations in opposition to the project. This rare combination of opponents revealed the complexity of balancing economic interests with environmental protection.
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