Harrahs Entertainment announced its plans to invest 485 million dollars in the renovation and expansion of Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Ind. The project is part of the plan to make Chicagoland into the biggest gaming and entertainment markets in the states.

Harras plans to build a two level vessel dedicated to gaming entertainment. The first level will include a 108,000-square-foot gambling area while the second level a 2,500-seat entertainment hall and a buffet. The design work has already begun. The project is planned to be ready by mid 2008.

According to Anthony Sanfilippo, the president of Harrahs Central Division, Chicagoland is about to become a major competitive to Las Vegas Strip and Atlantic City Boardwalk casinos. He said that the renovated Horseshoe Hammond casino would offer its customers a unique gaming and entertainment experience following the Harrahs tradition of excellent service and fine dining.