PENN Entertainment Advances Land-Based Casino Plans for New Orleans Area
Morgan Schmidt · Aug 19, 2026
PENN Entertainment Advances Land-Based Casino Plans for New Orleans Area
PENN Entertainment has outlined a plan to invest approximately 195 million dollars in a project that would replace its existing Boomtown Casino and Hotel New Orleans riverboat operation in Harvey, Louisiana, with a new land-based Hollywood Casino New Orleans facility built on an adjacent inland site, and the move aligns with a broader pattern of casino operators shifting operations ashore under state provisions established in 2018.
Project Scope and Key Features
The proposed facility would include around 875 slot machines along with 45 table games, a retail sportsbook, multiple dining options, and additional amenities designed to serve both local visitors and tourists, while the entire development remains subject to regulatory approval before construction can proceed. Observers note that the land-based approach eliminates the operational constraints tied to riverboat vessels, allowing for expanded floor space and more flexible layout options compared to the current floating setup in Harvey. Data from the announcement indicates an expected opening in 2029, which would mark a significant infrastructure upgrade for the property once all required permits and licenses receive final clearance from state authorities.
Regulatory Framework and Timeline
Louisiana law enacted in 2018 opened pathways for riverboat casinos to transition to permanent land-based locations, and this project follows that regulatory route as PENN Entertainment seeks the necessary approvals to move forward with the Hollywood Casino New Orleans development. Those who have tracked similar transitions point out that the process typically involves multiple layers of review, including local zoning considerations and gaming commission oversight, which can extend over several years before ground is broken. The company has positioned the 2029 target date as a realistic milestone that accounts for these approval stages along with the physical construction period required to deliver the full amenity package.
Location Advantages and Operational Shift
The adjacent inland site in Harvey offers direct access to existing infrastructure while removing the limitations of operating on water, and this strategic placement keeps the casino within the same market area that currently supports the Boomtown riverboat. Experts have observed that land-based facilities often achieve higher guest throughput because visitors can enter and exit more easily without the boarding procedures associated with riverboats. The project would maintain continuity for current employees and patrons during the transition phase, although the full scope of any temporary service adjustments would depend on construction sequencing once approvals are secured.
Industry Context Within Louisiana
Multiple operators across Louisiana have pursued similar moves to land-based locations since the 2018 legislative change took effect, and the PENN Entertainment announcement represents the latest example of this ongoing evolution in the state's gaming sector. Figures from the announcement show that the new Hollywood Casino New Orleans would feature a balanced mix of gaming options, hospitality elements, and entertainment amenities intended to compete effectively within the regional market. Those who monitor regulatory filings note that each project must demonstrate compliance with responsible gaming standards and economic impact requirements before the Louisiana Gaming Control Board grants final authorization.
Expected Economic and Community Impact
Local economic projections tied to teh development suggest sustained employment opportunities during both the construction phase and ongoing operations, while the addition of a retail sportsbook and expanded dining venues would create new revenue streams beyond traditional slot and table game activity. The 195 million dollar investment figure encompasses site preparation, building construction, gaming equipment installation, and initial marketing efforts, all of which would occur after regulatory green lights are obtained. Community stakeholders in the Harvey area have historically supported casino modernization efforts because such projects often generate increased tax revenue allocated to local infrastructure and public services.
Conclusion
The PENN Entertainment initiative to develop the land-based Hollywood Casino New Orleans on the inland site next to the current riverboat location encapsulates the current direction of casino development in Louisiana, where operators leverage the 2018 law to deliver updated facilities with improved amenities and operational efficiency. With an anticipated 2029 opening and a 195 million dollar investment backing the project, the proposal now moves into the regulatory review stage that will determine its final scope and timeline. Further updates are expected as the company works through the approval process with state and local authorities.