Project Details and 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 enhance visitor experience while the existing hotel at the current Boomtown site would remain open and operational throughout the transition period. Observers note that the project remains subject to regulatory approval before construction can begin, yet the company has outlined an expected opening date in 2029 that would mark a significant shift for gaming operations in the New Orleans area.

Regulatory and Industry Context

According to the 2018 state law, Louisiana casinos operating on riverboats gained the option to move operations onshore, and this framework has encouraged several operators to pursue similar inland relocations over recent years. The PENN Entertainment project follows this established pattern, with the company positioning the Hollywood Casino New Orleans brand as the new identity for its gaming activities once the transition receives all necessary approvals from state regulators.

Those familiar with the regulatory process point out that approval timelines can vary depending on review requirements, yet the company has expressed confidence in meeting the 2029 target once the project advances past initial hurdles. The announcement references the ongoing industry trend in Louisiana where operators evaluate opportunities to replace floating riverboat setups with permanent land-based structures that can accommodate larger facilities and improved guest amenities.

Timeline and Expected Impact

Construction on the new Hollywood Casino New Orleans site would begin following regulatory clearance, and the development schedule targets an opening in 2029 that would coincide with continued operations at the hotel portion of the original Boomtown property. The plan specifies retention of the hotel as a separate component, allowing lodging services to proceed without interruption while the gaming elements relocate to the inland location approximately 875 slot machines and 45 table games would anchor the new venue alongside the retail sportsbook and dining outlets.

Industry reports show that similar transitions in Louisiana have enabled operators to expand their offerings and improve accessibility for patrons, and PENN Entertainment's project follows this model by moving away from the riverboat format. The $195 million investment covers the full scope of the relocation, including site preparation and construction of the new facility that would operate under the Hollywood Casino New Orleans name.

Broader Trends in Louisiana Gaming

The 2018 legislation opened pathways for riverboat casinos to transition onshore, and multiple operators have since explored or completed such moves as part of efforts to modernize infrastructure. PENN Entertainment's announcement for the Harvey location adds to this sequence of developments, with the company detailing specific elements such as the 875 slot machines, 45 table games, and retail sportsbook that would define the new Hollywood Casino New Orleans experience.

Figures from the project outline indicate that the existing hotel would continue serving guests at the current site, which separates lodging from the gaming relocation and maintains continuity for that aspect of the operation. Regulatory approval stands as the next key step before work can proceed toward the 2029 opening, and the company has framed the investment as a direct response to opportunities created by the state law.