PENN Entertainment Advances Relocation of Boomtown Casino to New Land-Based Hollywood Casino New Orleans
PENN Entertainment has outlined plans to invest roughly 195 million dollars in relocating its existing riverboat casino operation from Harvey, Louisiana, to an adjacent land-based facility that will operate under the Hollywood Casino New Orleans brand once completed, and this move aligns with a series of similar transitions across the state since lawmakers passed enabling legislation in 2018.
Details of the Proposed Development
The new facility would span between 140,000 and 145,000 square feet and feature approximately 875 slot machines along with 45 table games, a retail sportsbook, multiple dining venues, and additional guest amenities while the project remains contingent on receiving all required regulatory approvals before construction advances toward a targeted 2029 opening date. Observers note that the shift from a riverboat format to a permanent land-based structure allows for expanded operational flexibility because operators gain more space for varied amenities without the mobility constraints inherent to vessels on the water.
Background on the Relocation Decision
PENN Entertainment's announcement specifies that the existing Boomtown Casino & Hotel New Orleans riverboat will transition fully to the new site, which sits adjacent to the current location in Harvey, and this approach minimizes disruption to ongoing operations during the development phase. Those familiar with the regional gaming sector point out that the 2018 state law opened pathways for riverboat licensees to establish onshore venues, and several properties have already pursued or completed comparable moves as a result.
Project Scope and Amenities
Company filings indicate the development will include retail sports betting capabilities alongside the core gaming floor, and the expanded footprint supports a broader range of dining options that can accommodate different visitor preferences throughout the day. Data from the announcement shows the total investment figure of approximately 195 million dollars covers both construction and fit-out costs, while the timeline projects substantial completion ahead of the 2029 launch provided approvals proceed without delays.
Planners have allocated space for the 875 slot machines and 45 table games within the main casino area, and the design incorporates dedicated zones for the sportsbook that allow patrons to place wagers on various sporting events in a comfortable setting. Additional amenities such as restaurants and lounges are expected to round out the visitor experience, creating a self-contained destination that builds on the existing Boomtown customer base.
Regulatory Path and Timeline
Approval processes involve multiple state and local gaming authorities, and PENN Entertainment has stated that the project will advance only after all necessary permits are secured, which means the 2029 target date functions as a planning benchmark rather than a guaranteed opening. Those tracking similar projects note that the 2018 legislation established clear guidelines for such onshore relocations, and this framework has facilitated several conversions already completed or underway in Louisiana.
The company press release further details how the adjacent land site offers direct access advantages compared with the current riverboat mooring, and this proximity supports efficient transfer of operations once construction wraps. Figures included in the announcement list the square footage range and gaming device counts as core elements of the proposed development plan.
Conclusion
The relocation represents a measured step within Louisiana's evolving casino landscape, where operators continue adapting facilities to land-based models under existing statutes, and PENN Entertainment's 195 million dollar commitment underscores the scale of investment required to complete such transitions by the end of the decade. Further updates are expected as regulatory reviews progress toward the anticipated 2029 opening. company announcement and related coverage provide additional project specifications for reference.