The $25 million capital project is expected to create 60 new full-time positions and an estimated 1,000 temporary construction jobs.

Governor LePage, Maine lawmakers, and representatives from Oxford Casino and Churchill Downs Incorporated gathered at Oxford Casino in Oxford recently to break ground on the casino’s new hotel development. The $25 million capital project includes expansion of the existing Oxford Casino facility and will feature over 100 new guest rooms, including standard rooms and suites, additional dining options, an expansion of the gaming floor and new, flexible meeting and banquet space.

“This is a really exciting time for Oxford and the Oxford Casino,” said Bill Mudd, President and COO of Churchill Downs Incorporated. “Since we acquired this casino back in 2013, Churchill Downs Incorporated has been a very proud operator in this state. Today’s groundbreaking is evidence of our continued commitment to Southern Maine and to providing the best casino and first class property experience that our customers expect. We’re honored to continue investing in this community to create new jobs and generate economic development for Oxford and the surrounding communities.”

In his remarks, Governor LePage thanked Churchill Downs Incorporated and cited the change in the unemployment rate in the region, from just under 12% in 2011 to the current rate of 3.4%.

In addition to remarks from the Governor and Bill Mudd, the program featured Jeremey Callahan, Slot Tech Manager at Oxford Casino. Callahan expressed gratitude to the Governor and key lawmakers in attendance who stood up to protect jobs in rural Maine. Following the groundbreaking ceremony, guests were invited to enjoy a light lunch.

Construction of the hotel and banquet space represents the second time CDI has invested in and expanded the facility since purchasing the Oxford property in July 2013. The facility currently employs over 400 people and is the largest employer in the town of Oxford. This latest expansion will create 60 new full-time positions and an estimated 1,000 temporary construction jobs.

The new hotel will connect to the town’s newly installed municipal sewer system, providing a significant source of revenue for the sewer project. Construction of the expansion is expected to begin as early as June 2016 and be complete by summer 2017.