Hard Rock International has announced it is to embark upon a new $600m project based in California in conjunction with the Tejon Indian Tribe, Kern County’s only federally recognised tribe.
The joint venture, set to be developed on a 306-acre portion of land in close proximity to Bakersfield, is to see the Seminole Tribe of Florida owned organisation control, develop and manage Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tejon.
Octavio Escobedo, Tejon Tribe chairman, said of the link-up: “The Tejon Indian Tribe has a proud history in Kern County. We welcome this partnership with Hard Rock International, one of the world’s most widely recognised brands, as an important step for our tribe and know that this project will be a great economic driver.
“It will bring positive benefits for our tribal citizens as well as for the Kern County community for decades to come. Good paying jobs and career opportunities translate into better healthcare, education and economic independence.”
Of the proposed site, which the federal government is to take into trust on behalf of Tejon, 52 acres is to be devoted to the resort hotel and casino, 22 adjacent acres will be designated for an RV park and the remainder used for other tribal purposes, including administrative offices, a health facility, housing and supporting infrastructure.
“Hard Rock International is excited to partner with the Tejon Indian Tribe, assisting in the achievement of their long-term goals,” commented Jim Allen, chairman and CEO of Hard Rock International.
“We look forward to building a first-class project with the Tejon Indian Tribe that equals our hotel and casino projects across the world.”
Once complete the complex is to contain a hotel, multiple restaurants and bars, spa and fitness facility, Kern Country’s largest conference and meeting space and Hard Rock Live concert venue, which is said to be a “key component” of the property.
Furthermore, the project is expected to create in excess of 1,000 jobs during construction and more than 2,000 permanent once complete.
Richard Chapman, CEO of Kern Economic Development Corporation, said of the plus points to be felt by the region: “Kern County will reap significant economic benefits from this exciting $600m hospitality and entertainment project.
“The region will also experience a tremendous influx of ‘new money’ into our local economy as the resort will draw people from throughout California. The Hard Rock brand is iconic in the industry and will further add to the value of the development.”
