Mississippi’s newest casino, Crystal Sky, opened its doors on Thursday, marking the latest addition to the city of Louisville and the state’s gaming industry.
The 18,000-square-foot facility, located at 1320 South Church Avenue, is under the umbrella of the Pearl River Resort in Philadelphia — which is approximately 25 miles south of Louisville — and operated by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.
The casino, which cost $25 million to build, features 150 slot machines, a sportsbook lounge, a restaurant, and 3,000 square feet of retail space. It also includes fueling stations for both commercial and passenger vehicles, making it Mississippi’s first casino-based travel center.
Crystal Sky will operate 24/7 and employs over 100 people, which officials say will be a boost to the local economy. Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben emphasized the broader benefits of the development, not just for the Choctaw community but also for the state and surrounding regions.
“In continuing that evolution of Choctaw Resort Development Enterprise and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians [Crystal Sky] is progress for the welfare of all of our more than 11,000 members that live here in Mississippi,” said Ben. “Yet it also evolves into supporting the state of Mississippi and this region as well.”
Louisville Mayor Will Hill echoed these sentiments, highlighting the casino’s potential to attract investment and create opportunities. “All the optimism here is about just the investment, employment, the opportunity,” said Hill. “Anytime you see a beautiful facility like this in your town, it’s overall a very positive feeling.”
The casino has been well-received by locals, who praised its accessibility and amenities. But more than a casino, the tribe sees the development as part of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians’ broader vision for growth and progress.
Chief Ben expressed optimism about future expansions. “We’re just hoping that it’s great for all, just like with Silver Star,” he said. “It didn’t take long before an expansion was built, and who knows what the future holds for us.”