The La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians is expanding its mini-mart on state Route 76 near Palomar Mountain to include 30 slot machines, making it the ninth county tribe to offer gaming. The facility would be the smallest gaming facility in the state when it opens in late May, according to tribal leaders.
The La Jolla reservation lies about 65 miles northeast of San Diego. Although one of the most remote of the 18 in the county, the reservation attracts thousands of visitors each summer to a large campground on the San Luis Rey River. The campground features a water slide and go-cart track.
Tribal leaders say the facility will be called a slot arcade rather than a casino. It will likely close around midnight on weekdays and a few hours later on weekends.
The La Jolla band would be the fifth North County tribe to open a gambling enterprise on or near Route 76 since last year. Other casinos have restaurants, blackjack tables and slot machines numbering from 760 to 2,000.
If the venture succeeds, the tribe might consider a larger casino later on, the consultant said. Near-term plans also include a horseback-riding stable and an RV park.
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