COCONUT CREEK (CBS4) –While the economy continues to batter businesses large and small, the Seminole-owned casinos in Coconut Creek and Hollywood are thriving.

Evidence of this can be seen in the newly opened a nine-story garage at its Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood and the expanded gambling positions – more than 400 – at the Seminole Casino Coconut Creek that opens Friday.

More than 300 permanent jobs have been added with the new services, said General Manager Steve Bonner during Friday’s opening.

Along with the gambling incentive there are new restaurants The Whistle Stop an d the Wrecking Bar, giving patrons more space to gamble, eat and party according to the Casino, he said.

This is the first step in a $125 million construction expansion that will conclude next year, Bonner said.

“The next phase has been approved by The Seminole Tribe and we’re working with the city on a projected 2012 opening of our permanent casino facility that will have 2500 slot machines, 60 to 70 blackjack tables, a new poker room, at least three more restaurants including a steakhouse and a 2,800 LEED certified green 2800 space parking garage,” Bonner said.