Sometimes, the best view is from the top—and for the Gelock team, the view from the new Gun Lake Casino Resort hotel was fifteen years in the making.
Last summer, Gun Lake Casino Resort reached a massive milestone by setting the “crown jewel” on the casino’s new hotel tower: the iconic signage that now defines the skyline along US-131.
A Project 15 Years in the Making
This wasn’t just another day on the job; it was a full-circle moment for our crew. When the casino first broke ground 15 years ago, Gelock was there to help build the foundation. However, due to the project’s early constraints and evolving management, we haven’t had the opportunity to be back on-site for over a decade.
As the property transformed from a local gaming floor into a world-class destination, we watched the progress from the sidelines. That made the call to return for setting the “new,” hotel signage even more meaningful.
Setting the Crown Jewel
Today, the Gun Lake Casino Resort is a stunning landmark, featuring:
- The 16-Story Hotel: A luxury tower that stands as one of the tallest structures in the region.
- Wawyé Oasis: A 32,000-square-foot glass-domed atrium that houses a tropical oasis.
- The Signature Signage: The massive “crown jewel” sign that we had the honor of hoisting and securing at the very peak.
Precision and Persistence
Hoisting the final piece of signage atop a 16-story tower requires extreme precision and a deep understanding of high-altitude rigging. Partnering with the team at Universal Sign Systems, we successfully placed the resort’s “final touch.”
After years away, being the team to set the highest point on the building was a proud moment for us. It’s a testament to the reputation Gelock has built for handling the most high-profile, “crown jewel” projects in Michigan.
Next time you see those lights shining over the highway, know that a lot of history—and a lot of Gelock pride—went into putting them there.
Phil Huitema was the project manager on this job. He is a Senior Project Manager at Gelock Heavy Movers, where he specializes in industrial rigging, heavy hauling, and crane services. Phil oversees large-scale operations ranging from plant relocations to the precision setting of massive industrial machinery. He is known for streamlining project bottlenecks and ensuring that even the most demanding projects are executed safely, on time, and without damage. Based in West Michigan, Phil serves as a single point of contact for clients, delivering the reliability and technical expertise that has defined Gelock for over 130 years.
