PENN Entertainment Advances Major Casino Relocation in Louisiana

PENN Entertainment has outlined plans to invest around 195 million dollars in a new land-based casino that would replace its current riverboat operation at Boomtown Casino and Hotel New Orleans in Harvey, Louisiana, and the project carries the working name Hollywood Casino New Orleans while remaining subject to regulatory approval from state authorities.

The company intends to build a facility that includes approximately 875 slot machines along with 45 table games, a retail sportsbook, multiple dining options, and additional guest amenities, and the expected opening sits in 2029 once all permits clear and construction finishes.

Key Elements of the Proposed Development

Observers note that the shift from a riverboat to a permanent onshore structure follows the framework established by a 2018 Louisiana law that permits such relocations under specific conditions, and this particular project would convert the existing Harvey site into a modern gaming destination designed for year-round operation without the limitations that come with floating vessels.

Those familiar with the announcement point out that the new property would maintain the core gaming offerings while expanding into non-gaming revenue streams such as food and beverage service plus sports betting, and the overall footprint aims to create a more integrated entertainment complex rather than a standalone boat-based venue.

Timeline and Regulatory Path Forward

Regulatory review forms the next major step before any groundbreaking can occur, and state gaming officials must evaluate the proposal against existing licensing rules and local zoning requirements in Jefferson Parish where Harvey is located. Construction phases would follow approval, with the full build-out expected to span several years leading up to the 2029 target date.

People who track Louisiana gaming developments indicate that similar relocation projects elsewhere in the state have moved through comparable approval processes, often requiring updates to environmental assessments and traffic studies before final sign-off.

Industry Context for the Relocation

The 2018 state law opened the door for riverboat operators to transition onshore, and several properties across Louisiana have already completed or begun similar moves in recent years, and this announcement from PENN Entertainment aligns with that established pattern of modernization.

Data from industry reports shows that land-based facilities typically offer greater flexibility for expansion, improved accessibility during weather events, and enhanced ability to incorporate retail and dining components that attract a broader visitor base beyond traditional gaming patrons.

Expected Features and Amenities

The planned Hollywood Casino New Orleans would retain the Hollywood branding that PENN Entertainment uses at other locations, and the design calls for a central gaming floor surrounded by food outlets, a dedicated sportsbook area, and supporting amenities such as parking structures and hotel integration if later phases add lodging capacity.

Those reviewing the preliminary details note that the slot count of roughly 875 machines plus 45 table games would represent a modest increase over many riverboat configurations, while the addition of a retail sportsbook introduces a new revenue category not always available on older floating vessels.

Conclusion

The proposed 195 million dollar investment marks a significant capital commitment by PENN Entertainment to its Louisiana operations, and the project remains contingent on securing all necessary approvals before moving into active construction toward the 2029 opening. Further updates from regulatory bodies and the company itself will clarify the precise timeline and final scope as the process advances.