LANSING (WKZO) -- A casino that's proposed just blocks from the state Capitol in Lansing is moving closer to reality.

Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero and the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians have completed what both call a "critical step" toward earning federal approval for the casino.  The Tribe completed the agreement to buy city-owned land next to the Lansing Center to build the facility and will put the land into trust.

Lansing officials say the proposed 245-million dollar casino will create 15-hundred jobs at the site and 700 construction jobs.