MHA Nation Plans Major Las Vegas Development: Could VGK Play There?

The Three Affiliated Tribes of the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation, also known as the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation (MHA Nation), have significant real estate holdings along the Las Vegas Strip and are looking to develop these assets. Despite speculation about the Vegas Golden Knights moving to a new arena on tribal land, the hockey team has stated they have no plans to leave their current venue, T-Mobile Arena, where they have a long-term lease and financial ties.

MHA Nation has been active in acquiring property in Las Vegas, having spent $115 million on 23 acres with no specific plans initially disclosed. However, tribal leaders have recently shared their vision for the land, which includes potential developments such as a casino-resort and a 15,000- to 20,000-seat event center. They are seeking $2 billion in outside funding and exploring various partnerships, though no formal agreements with sports teams have been confirmed.

Clark County records indicate plans for a hotel-casino with a convention center and theater on the property. While these plans are still in preliminary stages, county officials expect a significant project. Architecture firm Steelman Partners is involved in the design, although details remain under wraps.

The tribal nation has faced criticism from members back home for investing heavily off the reservation. Nonetheless, tribal leadership argues that these investments are meant to generate returns that can support new facilities and services for their community. Beyond development plans, MHA Nation has found ways to monetize their Las Vegas properties, such as leasing land for events and filming, which have provided additional revenue streams.