A prominent developer is pushing for South Carolina’s first legal casino, proposing a billion-dollar project that could reshape the state’s stance on gambling. The ambitious plan faces significant legislative challenges in a traditionally conservative state.
Key Takeaways:
- Developer Wallace Cheves proposes a $1 billion casino resort in Santee, SC
- Project aims to generate $8 billion in economic activity and create 4,600 jobs
- Legislation required to legalize gambling in South Carolina faces uphill battle
A Bold Vision for Santee
Wallace Cheves, a developer with a history in casino projects, has set his sights on Santee, South Carolina, for a potential $1 billion casino resort. The proposed development would be located off Interstate 95 at the former Santee Outlet Mall site in Orangeburg County.
The ambitious project envisions more than just gaming tables and slot machines. Cheves’ plan includes a hotel, spa, restaurants, and retail spaces, aiming to create a comprehensive destination resort. Notably, the developer emphasizes that the project would be entirely privately funded, stating, “We strongly believe that this investment should be driven by private enterprise, not taxpayer dollars.”
Economic Promises and Legislative Hurdles
Cheves’ Santee Development Corporation projects significant economic benefits from the casino. Their internal estimates suggest the facility could generate approximately $8 billion in economic activity and create over 4,600 jobs in its first decade. This potential economic boost is particularly appealing for an area often referred to as the “Corridor of Shame” due to its economic challenges.
However, the road to realization is fraught with obstacles. Casino gaming, along with most forms of gambling, remains illegal in South Carolina. The project’s future hinges on gaining support from the Republican-controlled South Carolina General Assembly and Governor Henry McMaster.
Legislative Landscape
A targeted bill, dubbed the “I-95 Economic and Education Stimulus Act,” has been introduced by Dorchester Republican state Rep. Chris Murphy. The legislation would allow casino construction in specific “Tier IV” counties along I-95, effectively limiting potential sites to Orangeburg, Marlboro, and Dillon counties.
The bill also proposes establishing a South Carolina Gaming Commission to oversee casino operations and would legalize various forms of gaming currently prohibited in the state.
Political Connections and Support
Cheves brings significant political clout to the table. Campaign finance reports show he made maximum allowable donations to several state lawmakers and contributed substantially to political action committees aligned with former President Donald Trump.
Some legislators have already voiced support for the proposal. Senate Minority Leader Brad Hutto, an Orangeburg Democrat, stated that the project could usher in an “economic renaissance” for the region, comparing its potential impact to that of BMW in the Upstate.
As the proposal moves forward, it will test South Carolina’s appetite for gambling expansion and economic development in historically underserved areas. The outcome could significantly impact the state’s gaming landscape and set precedents for future casino developments in the region.
