NEW BUFFALO — The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and its Four Winds Casinos announced Wednesday that it will be expanding Four Winds Dowagiac.

The new expansion will add 2,700 square feet to an existing 27,000 square feet to make room for 70 slot machines and two table games.

There will also be an exclusive entrance and 70 parking spaces for players that have Copper status through the W Club, which is Four Winds Casinos’ player loyalty program. Construction is expected to begin this spring and will be finished later this year. The work will not affect current operations at the casino.

“We have been extremely pleased with the response we have received from players at Four Winds Dowagiac since it first opened in April 2013,” said John P. Warren, chairman of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians. “The expansion of Four Winds Dowagiac not only demonstrates the success of our Four Winds Casinos, but also our continued economic development which is responsible for providing important services to Pokagon Citizens including housing, education, family services, medical care and cultural preservation.”

“This expansion is a direct response to players who have asked for more games at Four Winds Dowagiac,” said Frank Freedman, chief operating officer of Four Winds Casinos. “We are also pleased to extend exclusive benefits to our Copper Members through a private entrance and parking area.”

“We’ve enjoyed a good working relationship with the Pokagon Band and wish them continued success with the expansion of Four Winds Dowagiac,” said Linda Preston, supervisor, Pokagon Township. “Since opening three years ago, the casino has created a variety of new jobs and had a positive economic impact on the area.”

Four Winds Dowagiac currently has 300 slot machines, five table games, and a Timbers restaurant that can seat approximately 30 people. There is also a non-smoking area with approximately 20 slot machines. More information is available at www.fourwindscasino.com/dowagiac/overview.php.