By Joseph Marks,staff writer

Things are changing inside the Diamond Jo Casino on Interstate 35, near Northwood. Things are changing on the outside too.

Fifty-four new slot machines are being added in what was previously the casino’s poker room.

Carrie Tedore, director of public relations for Diamond Jo’s Dubuque and Northwood locations, said the plan is to make the room more of a slot parlor, to meet the demands of customers.

&8220;On weekends sometimes you have to wait for slots to open up,&8221; she said, &8220;so this is a better mix for attracting guests.&8221;

Outside, work is well under way on the Country Inn & Suites hotel which will stand adjacent to the casino. The hotel will be owned by Venert’s Investments, a franchise owner that also owns the Country Inn & Suites location in Albert Lea.

Tedore said the front part of the hotel is completed which will give casino guests a good idea of what the final product will look like.

Tedore said a faux finish is also being put on the casino itself which will make the building look more antique.