The Laguna tribe of New Mexico has embarked on an ambitious five-year plan to give its members a focus, raise their profile in the state of New Mexico and at the same time create a revenue source that will guarantee the success of the tribe for future generations.

The core of this “Disney of the South West” are three casinos, an amusement park, water park, golf course, stables and riding trails, off-road racing and an RV park. Supporting these are three hotels, a conference centre and executive retreat, travel centre and the tribe’s own museum, cultural centre and pow wow gathering space.

Although the facilities are generally themed to be evocative of the legend of Route 66 and its widely held claim as the “Mother Road”, consultation with the tribe has allowed the theming to embrace aspects of their culture throughout the facility, allowing the members to feel a connection to the resort while raising awareness in those passing through.

Already completed in year one of the master plan is the first casino, at 180,000 square feet, a travel centre and infrastructure for future phases. Currently exceeding revenue expectations, the first and future casinos will generate the funds needed for the tribe’s own facilities which will eventually include a substantial amount of new housing.

Rick Bennett Architects – Architect of record

Phase 1 Completed - 2003