Wisconsin casino could draw 3 million a year

Monday, April 24, 2000 | 12:11 p.m.

The torch tower topped by a glowing lantern is the centerpiece of the Potawatomi's new casino still under construction in the industrialized Menomonee Valley.

Its pricetag has grown by $50 million compared to the tribe's estimates when it sought local approval early last year.

The casino could draw 3 million patrons a year, the Potawatomi say. That would make it the city's top tourist attraction, bigger than the Brewers and Bucks combined.

"I think it will be surprising to a lot of people when they come in and see this world-class building," said Jeff Crawford, the Potawatomi attorney general. "We've always said we are going to build a casino that will create a positive image of Milwaukee."

Construction of the new expanded casino started last June with tribal officials hoping to open it on Oct. 1.

The tribe's earthy heritage contrasts with flashy, contemporary gambling inside the casino.

Gaming on the first floor has four distinct areas surrounding a circle of life and each depicts a different season.

An ice wall is a backdrop for the slot machines in the winter area. A nesting heron and a network of trellises hang over the spring area. An abstract honeycomb with droplets of honey are overhead in the summer section. And, a timber wigwam amid falling leaves anchors the fall area.

Columns in the gaming area will be covered with birch bark and simulated timbers will extend throughout the room.

The new casino will also have a 600-seat theater, which will feature live music, comedians and other entertainment.