Ho-Chunk Beloit Casino
Collaboration and Innovation on the New Ho-Chunk Beloit Casino
When you hear about an 18-story, 312-room hotel, a gaming facility featuring approximately 1,800 machines and 44 gaming tables, and a 75,000-square-foot convention center capable of hosting large-scale events, what comes to mind? At General Engineering Company (GEC), it’s the behind-the-scenes work of our engineering and surveying services that helps bring major developments like this to life.
GEC is no stranger to large-scale site design projects, and the new Ho-Chunk Beloit Casino is another noteworthy addition to our growing portfolio. Our team provided a range of services throughout the development of this project, beginning with our survey expertise. This included topographic, tree and legal (boundary and easement) surveys. The relatively flat terrain allowed our crew to efficiently collect all necessary data, laying a solid foundation for what was to come.
Following the survey phase, our civil engineering team stepped in to design critical infrastructure components, including utilities, sewer and water systems, stormwater management, storm sewer systems, and parking lot layouts. Design work began in the winter of 2023 and was tailored to the 30-acre parcel of tribal trust land designated for development.
While many elements of this project were typical of GEC’s offerings, there were also several unique aspects. A standout component was the creation of a Planned Unit Development (PUD) report, customized specifically for this property. The PUD framework allowed for greater creativity and flexibility than traditional commercial development, enabling a modern design that’s truly one-of-a-kind for Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit.
Coordination with the City of Beloit’s infrastructure improvements, including new roundabouts, was another critical part of the project. A new roundabout at the facility’s main entrance will significantly enhance accessibility and improve traffic flow for guests arriving at the casino. This collaboration ensures a seamless integration between the casino and the surrounding infrastructure, offering visitors a smooth and welcoming approach.
One final distinctive feature, often overlooked by the general public, is the design of the stormwater ponds. GEC’s structural and civil engineering teams collaborated to give these functional elements a visually appealing design. A culvert was incorporated at the main entrance to create the illusion of a bridge, enhancing the arrival experience with thoughtful aesthetics.
By blending technical expertise with creative design and through close coordination with city infrastructure efforts, GEC has helped shape a modern, welcoming environment for the Ho-Chunk Beloit Casino, further demonstrating our commitment to excellence in engineering and surveying solutions.
Collaborations/Partnerships on the Project
- HBG Designs | Architect and design interiors
- Talley | Landscape design
- EXP | Mechanical, electrical, plumbing (designed all the HVAC systems, plumbing, fire suppression, and electrical)
- City of Beloit (permits and plan approvals, including the city’s right-of-way improvement)
- PSI | Geotechnical studies (GEC coordinated PSI for Ho-Chunk to conduct the testing)
Other Things to Note
- Location: along I39/90 near Willowbrook and Colley Roads in Beloit, WI
- The project will be built in phases
- Permits from the state and local governments for utilities, stormwater, and erosion control
- The design schedule was fast-tracked, as the tree main buildings were designed as separate projects, but then they were combined for one plan set (deliverable)
