PENN Entertainment Plans Land-Based Hollywood Casino Replacement in Louisiana

PENN Entertainment has outlined a $195 million investment to replace its current riverboat operation at Boomtown Casino & Hotel New Orleans in Harvey with a new land-based Hollywood Casino New Orleans on an adjacent inland site and the project requires regulatory approval before construction proceeds.

The planned facility will include 875 slot machines along with 45 table games, a dedicated sportsbook, multiple dining options and additional guest amenities while the move follows the pattern of similar riverboat-to-land conversions permitted under a 2018 Louisiana law that expanded options for casino operators in the state.

Project Details and Timeline

Subject to regulatory clearance the new Hollywood Casino New Orleans is scheduled to open in 2029 and the development aims to address declining revenues recorded at the existing riverboat property by shifting operations to a permanent inland location that offers expanded space and improved access for visitors.

Company statements indicate the land-based structure will provide a more stable operational base compared with the current floating venue while the adjacent site selection minimizes disruption during the transition phase and allows for integration with existing infrastructure in Harvey.

Background on Louisiana Casino Regulations

The 2018 legislation opened pathways for riverboat casinos to relocate to land-based sites and several operators across Louisiana have pursued similar transitions in recent years as part of efforts to modernize facilities and respond to shifting market conditions.

This specific project continues that established trend and positions the new Hollywood Casino New Orleans to operate under the same regulatory framework that governs other land-based venues in the state while maintaining compliance with all licensing requirements tied to the original riverboat authorization.

Observers note that the relocation reflects broader industry adjustments where land-based properties can accommodate larger gaming floors and diversified entertainment offerings that riverboat designs often limit due to space and structural constraints.

Revenue Context and Operational Shift

Revenue figures at the Boomtown Casino & Hotel New Orleans riverboat have shown consistent declines prompting the investment decision to pursue a land-based alternative that can support higher capacity and enhanced customer amenities over time.

The transition plan keeps the operation within the same local market while moving away from the riverboat format and the new site location in Harvey maintains proximity to the original venue which helps preserve the existing customer base during the multi-year development period.

Regulatory and Construction Path Forward

Approval processes remain pending and PENN Entertainment will work through state gaming authorities to secure necessary permits before groundbreaking can begin on the inland facility with construction timelines aligned to the 2029 target opening date.

Project documentation highlights the inclusion of a sportsbook as a key feature that aligns with growing demand for sports wagering options in Louisiana and the overall design emphasizes a mix of gaming and non-gaming amenities to broaden appeal beyond traditional casino visitors.

Conclusion

The $195 million project represents a significant capital commitment by PENN Entertainment to modernize its New Orleans-area presence through conversion from riverboat to land-based operations and the development follows established regulatory allowances introduced in 2018 while targeting improved performance metrics at the new Hollywood Casino New Orleans location.