In 2015, the Ak-Chin Indian Community was facing challenges. A major casino renovation initiated by the casino operator was in the planning stage. The Community expanded the scope but was concerned over resources to manage the work. An architect had been selected by Harrah’s and a contractor was selected by the Community. Over a series of conversations and analyses, ownership led them to join forces as a design-build team.

Success ensued.

The Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino Resort Expansion took place on a 40-acre site within the Ak- Chin Indian Community, adjacent to Maricopa, Arizona (40 miles outside Phoenix). The project includes an 11-story concrete hotel tower, spa, 20,460 sf of new gaming space, food and beverage venues, multi-purpose event/banquet center, 750-car parking garage, and new bingo hall. The project team also expanded an existing central plant, constructed a pedestrian bridge between the facility and adjacent family/entertainment center, and improved miles of roadways.

The Power of Design-Build Done Right®

Using design-build best practices including equitable risk mitigation, effective teaming, collaborative problem solving, and high Owner engagement led to this successful project. The Ak-Chin tribal community was fully engaged in elders’ meetings and public workshops leading to a design including traditional themes and elements throughout the resort. Ultimately, the project far surpassed the initial budget and schedule goals. The project completed more than six months ahead of the initial schedule even after taking on a significant amount of additional scope items and running into multiple unforeseen existing conditions.

Design-Build Team

Client/Owner:	Ak-Chin Indian Community
Design-Build Firm:	Sundt|Yates
Architect:	TBE Architects
Project Manager:	Sundt Construction, Inc.
Construction Duration:	32 Months
Project Cost:	$162,084,640.00