A casino foundation in Indiana is planning to donate almost $100 million to a new schools plan. That commitment, however, depends on whether the county would be willing to make a contribution of its own.
The Contribution Would Depend on Whether the County Agrees to Make Its Own Investment
The Terre Haute Casino Resort Foundation announced that it plans to contribute roughly $95 million to a new schools plan in Vigo County. As mentioned, the contribution would only come to fruition if the county itself decides to make a similar one by the end of 2026.
Casino foundation officials noted that they firmly support the construction of a new high school east of the Wabash River as a key part of the schools plan. They noted that such a school would contribute to the overall future of the entire country.
Strong, modern schools are essential to educational opportunity, workforce readiness, talent attraction and retention, and the overall quality of life of our community.
Terre Haute Casino Resort Foundation statement
For reference, the plan that the local school board is currently considering would see the total number of school buildings reduced in order to consolidate learning. Some buildings would be renovated and modernized in order to offer better learning experiences.
The Casino Foundation to Support Schools for the Next Two Decades
Per the Terre Haute Casino Resort Foundation’s commitment, the organization would provide an initial payment of $10 million, followed by annual payments of roughly $4 million for 20 more years. The exact annual deposits would depend on the Terre Haute Casino Resort, which is the funder of the foundation.
However, if the Vigo County Council fails to reach a decision by December 31, the foundation will consider its options and may potentially reconsider its proposal to invest in the schools plan.
In any case, the local Oversight Board will now review the proposal and make a recommendation to the government on whether to accept the foundation’s proposal. However, the government might still decide not to go with the plan, since the decision would be ultimately up to the Vigo County Council.