PENN Entertainment Advances Inland Relocation for Hollywood Casino New Orleans

PENN Entertainment has announced plans to invest approximately $195 million in relocating its existing riverboat Boomtown Casino & Hotel New Orleans from Harvey, Louisiana, to a new inland land-based facility that will operate under the Hollywood Casino New Orleans brand, and this move remains subject to regulatory approval while targeting an opening in 2029.

The project calls for roughly 875 slot machines along with 45 table games, a retail sportsbook, multiple dining options, bars, and a dedicated VIP lounge, whereas the current hotel component stays open at its present location throughout the transition period.

Project Details and Timeline

Observers note that the relocation follows the framework established by a 2018 Louisiana law permitting riverboat casinos to shift operations to permanent land-based sites, and this approach aligns with similar transitions already underway by other operators across the state. teh new facility design emphasizes expanded entertainment and hospitality amenities that capitalize on the shift away from riverboat constraints, while the $195 million commitment covers construction, equipment, and infrastructure necessary for the inland venue.

Regulatory approval stands as the next critical step before groundbreaking can begin, and state gaming authorities will review the application through established channels that evaluate licensing, site suitability, and compliance with local ordinances. Once approved the construction phase is expected to span several years leading up to the 2029 debut, allowing time for detailed planning that incorporates feedback from community stakeholders and industry partners.

Broader Context Within Louisiana Gaming Landscape

Those who track state gaming policy recognize that the 2018 legislation opened pathways for riverboat operators to pursue more flexible land-based formats, and PENN Entertainment's announcement represents the latest example of this trend taking concrete form. The Hollywood Casino New Orleans project incorporates modern amenities such as the retail sportsbook and expanded dining that reflect evolving consumer preferences in the region.

Figures referenced in the announcement highlight the scale of investment required to complete a full relocation of this type, and the $195 million figure encompasses both the physical move and the creation of new entertainment offerings designed to attract a wider audience once operations commence in 2029.

People familiar with the industry note that securing all necessary permits and approvals often extends over multiple review cycles, yet the structured timeline allows PENN Entertainment to coordinate with suppliers and contractors well in advance of the target opening date.

Conclusion

The planned relocation of Boomtown Casino & Hotel New Orleans to the new Hollywood Casino New Orleans site encapsulates a measured response to legislative changes that have reshaped riverboat gaming in Louisiana since 2018. With regulatory review pending and construction slated to follow approval, the project positions PENN Entertainment to deliver an updated land-based experience featuring 875 slots, 45 table games, a retail sportsbook, dining venues, bars, and a VIP lounge by 2029 while maintaining hotel operations at the original Harvey location. The announcement provides a clear blueprint for the transition that other operators have already begun to explore under the same statutory provisions.