Cherokee Nation development project will help make northeast Oklahoma shopping, dining, entertainment destination

The future of the Cherokee Nation got much brighter this week. Cherokee Outlets, the proposed high-end outlet mall at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa, is poised to become a regional destination with world-class shopping, exceptional dining and entertainment options for everyone.
 
Texas-based Woodmont Outlets approached us months ago and offered to locate an $80 million high-end shopping development on our property at Hard Rock. After many studies and careful consideration, we felt it was an opportunity we could not pass up.
 
Cherokee Nation has always been the industry standard in gaming and hospitality in Oklahoma. We were the first tribe to open a resort-style casino that offered more than just gaming, with a hotel, golf course and fine dining. As the market leader, Cherokee Outlets is the natural evolution.
 
We expect it will attract visitors from Kansas, Missouri and Arkansas, bringing out-of-state dollars right here to the Cherokee Nation. Without question, it will be a financial boon to all of northeast Oklahoma.
 
Cherokee Outlets is expected to create 1,000 full-time jobs and generate millions of dollars in sales tax revenue annually. Hundreds of construction jobs will be created, and the entire area will see a lift.
 
In addition to this one-of-a-kind facility, CNB is planning a dining and entertainment zone called The District, which would connect the shopping outlets to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. We feel these combined projects will provide something for everyone and attract visitors who've never visited one of our properties before.
 
This means more revenue to our businesses, which results in more funding for Cherokee Nation services like health care, housing and education. It also means more jobs for Cherokees, as foot traffic at The District and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa picks up.
 
Our last economic impact report showed a $1.3 billion imprint on northeast Oklahoma. That impact will undoubtedly grow with this proposed development, making it a win for the Cherokee Nation and a win for all of Oklahoma.
 
God bless all of you, and God bless the Cherokee Nation.
 
Wado.
 

Bill John Baker

Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation