GRAND ISLAND, Neb. - Central Nebraska has hit the jackpot, with the state’s first full-scale casino and resort opening its doors in Grand Island.

The new $185 million Grand Island Casino and Resort is the first of its kind in Nebraska, with the doors just opening for the general public.

The facility held a ribbon cutting Thursday evening to share what makes this facility so unique.

The casino and resort has an impressive 750 slot machines, 20 table games, a sports book, and Nebraska's first ever live poker game and much more. It also includes a hotel with over 160 rooms, full spa and indoor-outdoor pools.

The plan for the facility started in 2020, and Fonner Park had many options to partner with but one candidate stood out- Elite Casinos and Resorts.

"Fonner Park chose us as a partner. There was a lot of meetings and presentations,, but we knew they were the right partners for us and they knew we'd be the right partners for them," said Grand Island Casino Resort General Manager Vince Fiala. 

Officials added that Elite's proven track record of upscale establishments along with reliable staffing helped seal the deal.

The casino will bring added revenue to the area, on top of employing 425 full-time positions.

Fonner Park and the local horse racing scene will also benefit greatly.

"It just seems like the process has gone so fast, but it was necessary for Nebraska Thoroughbred Racing to sustain itself (1:16) because frankly it was not sustaining itself. So I'm tickled to death that it's finally here. This is our savior," said Fonner Park CEO Chris Kotulak.

These officials say the good relationship between Fonner Park and Elite casinos and resorts will only grow over time, along with the financial benefit to the city.

Based on attendance Thursday, Central Nebraskans appear "all in" on the new facility.