A New Era for Bossier City: The Upcoming Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana
Posted on: October 25, 2024, 01:18h
Last updated on: October 25, 2024, 01:32h
On Wednesday, The Cordish Companies officially marked a significant milestone in the redevelopment of the Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana by raising its iconic red logo atop what will soon be a vibrant destination in Bossier City. This ambitious $270 million project is set to transform the former Diamond Jacks riverboat casino and hotel into an exciting, state-of-the-art entertainment hub. With plans to open its doors to the public in the first quarter of 2025, this development is poised to inject new life into the area and revitalize the local gaming scene.
Image Source: The Cordish Companies
Investing in a New Future
With this significant investment, Cordish aims to not only enhance its gaming portfolio—currently spanning Maryland and Pennsylvania—but also create lasting economic benefits for Louisiana. As addressed by Joshua Robinson, the vice president of marketing for the resort, the raising of the logo symbolizes the commencement of a new era for the region. "Putting the sign on the building is like putting the icing on the cake," Robinson stated, suggesting that this unveiling is just the beginning of what’s to come.
Reviving a Historic Location
The former Diamond Jacks casino, which had been closed permanently during the pandemic, faced numerous challenges before its transformation into the Live! brand. The previous owner, Peninsula Pacific Entertainment, tried to relocate its gaming license but faced local resistance, leading to its eventual sale. Following the acquisition by Foundation Gaming, which initially planned a $200 million renovation, the property was sold to Cordish in early 2023. Recognizing a unique opportunity, Cordish committed to a more substantial redevelopment, promising a richer experience for the region.
Expanded Gaming Facilities
Once completed, the Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana will host a plethora of gaming options. It will include an impressive 1,000 slot machines, roughly 40 live dealer table games, and dedicated areas for electronic table gaming and sports betting. The project’s massive footprint also encompasses a newly constructed 47,000-square-foot brick-and-mortar casino that promises to be a centerpiece for visitors.
In addition to gaming, the resort will offer a range of modern amenities, including an upscale hotel with newly renovated accommodations. A multipurpose event space covering 25,000 square feet and a 31-site RV park featuring concrete pads and full hookups will ensure that the resort caters to diverse interests and promotes community engagement.
A Boost for the Local Economy
Beyond enhancing the gaming landscape, the development is expected to deliver significant economic benefits to Bossier City. Cordish estimates that the casino will create around 750 permanent jobs, contributing approximately $34 million a year in pay and tips, which translates to an average of about $45,333 per employee. To put this into perspective, the median household income in Bossier City currently stands at $54,100, meaning employees could expect to earn considerably more than the local average.
Commitment to Community
Cordish’s commitment to the local community extends beyond job creation. The company has pledged to source contracts from local, minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses as part of its operational strategy. This dedication to inclusivity reflects a broader vision of revitalizing Bossier City while ensuring that various segments of the community benefit from the new economic activities.
Building a Destination
The anticipated opening of the Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana is expected to re-establish Bossier City as a vital player in the regional gaming market alongside other local properties like Boomtown, Bally’s, Horseshoe, Sam’s Town, and Margaritaville. With live entertainment, upscale hospitality, and a diverse range of gaming options, the resort is poised to become a significant destination for both locals and visitors.
Conclusion
The upcoming Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana represents a bold investment in the future of Bossier City and Northwest Louisiana. As the construction continues and the opening approaches, the excitement surrounding this transformative project grows. Ultimately, the data suggests that, with Cordish at the helm, Bossier City is set to enter a new era of economic growth, enhanced entertainment options, and community engagement that could redefine the landscape of gaming in the region. As locals eagerly await the debut of this ambitious development, the call is clear—get ready to get ‘live!’
