Judge approves plan to build casino in Madera County

NORTH FORK, Calif. (KFSN) -- A federal judge is allowing plans to move forward to build a casino along Highway 99 in Madera County. The lawsuit was one of the biggest obstacles for North Fork Rancheria's Casino.

The proposed site is about seven miles north of the city of Madera. Opponents have fought the casino for years claiming it violates tribal gaming regulations.

The judge ruled, unless appealed, the casino can include 2,500 gaming devices, six bars, three restaurants, and a 200 room hotel tower.