Vigo County Residents Reflect on the Terre Haute Casino One Year After Opening
- Theresa Adams
- Jun 9
- 4 min read
The Terre Haute Casino has been a topic of interest and discussion in Vigo County since its doors opened a year ago. With promises of economic impact, entertainment options, and community growth, expectations were high for the casino's effect on the area. Now, after a year in operation, residents share a range of perspectives on its success, its shortcomings, and its role in the community.
To better understand how residents feel about the casino, a survey by Insight 84 was conducted among 1,000 Vigo County residents aged 18 and over. The results provide insight into public opinion and shed light on the casino's perceived impact.
Community Division Over Initial Support
The opening of the Terre Haute Casino was not without debate. According to the survey, 54 percent of respondents supported the initial referendum to bring a casino to Vigo County, while 46 percent opposed it. This slim margin reflects a community divided on the decision to introduce gambling as a local entertainment option.
When respondents were asked which operator they preferred to manage the casino, 63 percent had no opinion, indicating that for many, the operator's identity played a secondary role to the casino's broader purpose. Of those who did voice a preference, Hard Rock led with 24 percent, followed by Churchill Downs with 10 percent, and Rising Sun at 3 percent.
Visitation Habits and Entertainment Preferences
One of the most telling metrics of the casino's role in the community is visitation. Since the casino opened, 54 percent of respondents said they have visited, while 46 percent have not. Among those who visited:
63 percent went 1-3 times, showcasing occasional patronage.
20 percent visited 4-7 times, indicating a more regular interest.
17 percent visited more than 7 times, illustrating strong enthusiasm among a smaller group.
When asked about the purpose of their visits, responses revealed a nearly even split:
33 percent visited for gaming.
30 percent visited for the food.
37 percent visited for both, highlighting the dual draw of entertainment and dining options.
Interestingly, 21 percent of respondents reported visiting casinos outside of Terre Haute, while 79 percent said Terre Haute's casino met their needs as their sole destination for this type of entertainment.
Satisfaction With the Casino Experience
Feedback from casino-goers has generally been positive. The survey found that 73 percent of visitors were satisfied with their experience, while the remaining 27 percent left dissatisfied. Comments from respondents indicate that factors such as customer service, gaming options, dining quality, and the overall atmosphere play critical roles in shaping satisfaction levels.
Residents also shared their views on how the casino impacts the community. A key question in the survey asked about crime since the casino's opening:
16 percent of respondents believe crime has increased.
4 percent feel it has decreased.
80 percent say crime has remained the same.
These results suggest that while there were initial concerns about gambling-related crime, the majority of residents have not observed any notable changes in safety.
Economic Benefits and Social Contributions
One of the most anticipated outcomes of the casino's opening was its potential to boost the local economy. According to the survey, 64 percent of respondents feel the area has benefited economically, while 36 percent believe it has not.
A significant portion of the survey explored the casino's contributions to the newly established Casino Community Foundation, which generates $4-6 million annually for public donations. When asked whether the foundation should dedicate all its yearly donations to building new schools in Vigo County:
65 percent of respondents supported the idea.
18 percent opposed it.
17 percent were undecided.
Interestingly, when filtered by respondents without children in their households, support increased slightly, with 71 percent agreeing the funds should go toward schools, suggesting widespread interest in prioritizing education.
Political and Leadership Favorability Poll
Aside from opinions on the casino, the survey also gauged favorability ratings for various community leaders and political figures. The results revealed a wide range of public sentiment:
Brandon Sakbun led the poll with a favorability rating of 80 percent, reflecting strong community support.
The Terre Haute City Council followed at 75 percent, and Tonya Plaff at 74 percent.
Other notable figures included Mark Clinkenbeard (68 percent), Chris Switzer (65 percent), and Greg Goode (59 percent).
The Vigo County Council received a 57 percent favorability rating.
Donald Trump and Mike Braun received the lowest ratings, at 38 percent and 30 percent, respectively.
What Lies Ahead for the Terre Haute Casino
Overall, the opening of the Terre Haute Casino has generated a mix of excitement, support, and constructive criticism. While many residents are pleased with its economic contributions and entertainment options, some remain skeptical about its broader impact on the community.
The survey underscores the importance of listening to resident feedback as the casino continues to refine its offerings and expand its role in Vigo County. Ensuring continued transparency, delivering high-quality experiences, and addressing community needs will be critical for maintaining public trust and support.
