ilani Casino Expansion
Project Location
Ridgefield, WA
Owner
Cowlitz Tribe
Architect
Friedmutter Group
Market
Native American, Parking Structures
Services
Concrete, General Contracting, Self-Perform
Region
Pacific Northwest
Swinerton Office Location
Portland, Oregon
Award
2020 Vancouver-SW Washington Business Journal Top Project, Oregon Daily Journal of Commerce 2nd Place TopProject
Keywords
Design-Build, Self-Perform Concrete, Hospitality, Native American, Gaming
Transforming ilani Casino Resort: Integrated Expansion and Parking Solutions
The ilani Casino Resort stands as a testament to the enduring partnership between Swinerton and the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, reflecting a shared vision for innovation, hospitality, and community impact. Over multiple phases, Swinerton has delivered a series of transformative design-build projects that have elevated the guest experience and expanded the resort’s capabilities.
The multi-faceted casino expansion was executed in three carefully coordinated phases within the operational resort environment. The project included the expansion of the gaming floor, a complete rebuild and doubling of the iconic 360 Bar, and the addition of new dining and entertainment venues—including a Vietnamese restaurant, a vibrant sports bar with a 12-foot by 68-foot video wall, and a state-of-the-art sportsbook. Each phase required seamless integration of new electrical, sewer, teledata, audiovisual, and HVAC systems with existing infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted operations and guest comfort. To further support the expanded amenities, Swinerton delivered a new warehouse with cold food storage and green room space, enhancing the resort’s service capabilities.
Swinerton’s expertise extended to the construction of the six-story, 2,600-stall parking structure—an essential addition to accommodate increased visitation. Utilizing a cast-in-place concrete structural system, the garage features an as-cast exterior finish with architectural reveals, a tiered speed ramp system for efficient traffic flow, and a state-of-the-art parking guidance system. Climate-controlled elevator lobbies provide direct access to the casino’s ground level, while an expanded canopy seamlessly connects the garage to the main entrance. The rooftop is structurally designed to host events and concerts, offering flexibility for future growth and unique guest experiences. Throughout construction, Swinerton self-performed the structural concrete and rebar scopes of work, demonstrating a commitment to quality and schedule control.
All work was performed adjacent to an active casino and hotel, requiring meticulous planning, phased scheduling, and close collaboration with the client to minimize disruption. Swinerton’s integrated approach, deep understanding of the property’s operational needs, and focus on long-term value have made ilani Casino Resort a premier destination in the Pacific Northwest.
This ongoing partnership exemplifies Swinerton’s role as a trusted builder and partner—delivering innovative, efficient, and guest-focused solutions that shape the future of hospitality and entertainment for the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and the broader community.







