The casino is just south of Joplin at Exit 1 on I-44, and 45 minutes north of the Arkansas state line. It features one million square feet of slot machines, guest rooms and restaurants.
The C-store complex will occupy about 10 acres across from Downstream's main entrance. Plans call for 40 RV/camper parking spaces with utility hook-ups and a shower and laundry building; at least 22 parking spaces for semi tractor-trailer trucks; four diesel fuel pumps and six gasoline pumps; and an 8,000-square-foot convenience and liquor store with an outdoor dining area and drive-through window. The gas station will likely be branded under one of the popular national brand names, said Downstream General Manager Steven Drewes.
"We are finalizing many of the details this week while the land is being cleared and prepared, and construction should begin next month," Drewes said. "We should be ready to open in March."
