Potawatomi Casino | Hotel – Project First Strike - Milwaukee, WI

Potawatomi Casino | Hotel’s first round of renovations is known as Project First Strike. Phase I was a 114,000 SF renovation that implemented four new gaming areas, a new bar and three restaurants, a gift shop, an all-new VIP lounge, and over 300 new slot machines located on the second level.

The expansion of Potawatomi Casino | Hotel allowed for the Casino to remain one of the top employers in Southeastern Wisconsin, projected to add another 600 jobs to its workforce. Another notable aspect of the expansion is that the return of Bingo gaming substantially raised the Casino’s philanthropic arm, “Heart of Canal Street” which aims to raise over $1 Million annually for children’s charities in Southeastern Wisconsin.

Features of the newly renovated third floor include Rock & Brews, conceived by Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, is a 6,000 square-foot rock-themed restaurant featuring a band stage and 48 taps, catering to 200 guests. New dining spots include Cream City Coffee Co. and Street Eatz, offering Milwaukee favorites like barbecue and street tacos, along with a “bar truck” serving slushy cocktails. Potawatomi Provisions, a high-end gift shop, offers luxury items like handbags and jewelry. Renovated gaming areas populate the third floor, including ElevenHundred, the Casino’s largest gaming floor featuring 633 slot machines, 16 gaming tables, and a beautiful granite bar and lounge surrounded by custom LED lighting. The exclusive 1833 Club, which showcases a full-exhibition kitchen with visiting celebrity chefs, custom designed sofas, a top-of-the-line bar serving high-end liquors, and a state-of-the-art gaming lounge with 89 slot machines and four high-limit blackjack tables all for VIP guests.

Much of the project success stems from communicated and coordinated efforts from a joint venture between Gilbane | Greenfire and other vested parties. The careful phasing of the project and staging of supplies was vital to keep the venue operating with little disruption to guests. Throughout the project, the team provided oversight for the complexity of the project including relocating gaming machines, installing building systems for the renovated space, and commissioning the space. The result was a successful project completion that was operational and enhanced the hospitality experience.

Upon completion of the project, there was a private celebration for tribal members, veterans, and VIPs to experience the newly renovated spaces. Putting those stakeholders at the forefront of the project is what maintained a high level of quality, safety, and pride throughout the project team.

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT | Potawatomi Casino | Hotel – Project First Strike