MILWAUKEE — Thursday was a busy day at Potawatomi Casino Hotel.

In the morning, Potawatomi CEO Dominic Ortiz cut the ribbon to mark the completion of the next phase in the casino’s $190 million renovation.

What You Need To Know

  • Potawatomi Casino Hotel's temporary sportsbook opened in March

  • Business has exceeded expectations since opening

  • The start of the NFL season is expected to make things busier

While the second phase of renovations included additional slots, a new VIP gaming room and a new coffee shop, work is still ongoing on Potawatomi’s permanent sports betting facility. However, a temporary facility has been operating at the casino since March. 

Justin Arnett is the director of Potawatomi’s sportsbook and said demand for sports betting has exceeded predictions since launching earlier this year. Now, with the NFL season beginning, he expects things to get even busier. 

“It is what we have seen so far on steroids,” said Arnett. “We were extremely busy and packed and a lot of fun for the NBA Playoffs and some through baseball season. Football in on a whole different level.”

The temporary sportsbook opened with approximately 20 betting kiosks and four ticket writer stations. However, with the NFL season beginning, Arnett plans to expand even before the permanent sportsbook opens up. 

“We have been busy adding to that, so I am still unleashing some more by this weekend,” said Arnett.

Arnett said whenever a big rivalry matchup takes place, it often leads to more betting. He expects it to be the case during the Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears game on Sunday. 

Potawatomi expects to open their permanent sportsbook in mid-2024.  

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