BLYN — Even if you’ve never slipped a nickel into a slot machine, it’s likely you will feel the effect of the one-armed bandits.
Starting this fall, the power of the slot will be more noticeable on the North Olympic Peninsula as the Jamestown S’Klallam tribe starts a $30 million expansion around its 7 Cedars Casino.
Phase one is called Longhouse: A Country Store and Gathering Place.
Just west of the casino on U.S. Highway 101, totem poles will herald a round-the-clock market and cafe with a Coast Salish cedar long-house design.
“It’s a country store, not a convenience store,” said Jerry Allen, assistant general manager of the 7 Cedars Casino.
The structure will mix modern with historical, with wireless Internet access, seating for 30 in overstuffed chairs around a fireplace, a wine shop and fresh seafood.
The country store’s opening is planned for November.
The next phase of construction will begin in early 2007, when the Jamestown tribe breaks ground on a seven-story hotel northwest of the casino.
“It will be a destination resort,” said Ron Allen, tribal chairman.
A 100-foot totem pole will be erected in front of a hotel that will feature two restaurants and a conference center.
The tribe will work with Senate Hospitality, an internationally known hotel management company, to market the resort and design tour packages to guide guests around the Pacific Northwest.
The complex could open in late 2008.