PENN Entertainment Commits to Major Relocation for Boomtown Casino Operations in Louisiana

PENN Entertainment announced plans to invest approximately $195 million to relocate its existing Boomtown Casino & Hotel New Orleans riverboat operations in Harvey, Louisiana, to a new adjacent land-based facility branded as Hollywood Casino New Orleans, and this project would feature 140,000–145,000 square feet of development with around 875 slot machines, 45 table games, a retail sportsbook, dining options, and other amenities while carrying an expected opening in 2029 subject to regulatory approval.

Project Scope and Investment Breakdown

The company outlined a clear transition from the current riverboat setup to a permanent land-based structure built right next door, and this move aligns with the 2018 state law that enabled such onshore shifts for Louisiana riverboat casinos while allowing the new facility to maintain the same gaming capacity in a more accessible format. Observers note that the $195 million commitment covers construction of the expanded footprint along with integration of modern amenities designed to enhance visitor flow and operational efficiency, and the planned 140,000–145,000 square feet will house the core gaming areas plus supporting retail and dining spaces without altering the total number of slot machines or table games currently offered at the riverboat location.

Facility Components and Guest Experience

Around 875 slot machines and 45 table games form the central gaming offering at the future Hollywood Casino New Orleans, and a retail sportsbook will sit alongside dedicated dining venues plus additional amenities that together create a comprehensive entertainment destination. Those who've studied similar projects know the land-based design removes the constraints of riverboat operations such as limited square footage and weather-related access issues, and the adjacent location keeps the operation within the same Harvey market while providing room for expanded guest services that the floating vessel could not accommodate.

Regulatory Path and Timeline

Subject to regulatory approval the project moves forward with an anticipated opening in 2029, and PENN Entertainment has already begun the necessary filings and community coordination required under Louisiana gaming statutes. Data from the announcement shows the relocation preserves existing employment levels during the transition period while positioning the property for long-term growth once the land-based facility becomes operational, and the 2018 law continues to shape these developments by removing prior barriers that kept riverboats on the water.

Market Context Within Louisiana Gaming

This relocation continues a trend of Louisiana riverboat casinos moving onshore following the 2018 state law, and PENN Entertainment's decision reflects the same strategic shift other operators have pursued to modernize their properties. The new Hollywood Casino New Orleans will operate under the same regulatory framework that governs all land-based gaming in the state, and the adjacent site selection minimizes disruption for current patrons while delivering the infrastructure upgrades that support higher visitor volumes over time.

Conclusion

The $195 million investment by PENN Entertainment marks a significant step in the evolution of the Boomtown Casino & Hotel New Orleans property, and the transition to the Hollywood Casino New Orleans land-based facility will deliver expanded amenities within the established 140,000–145,000 square foot development that includes 875 slot machines, 45 table games, a retail sportsbook, and multiple dining options. With an expected 2029 opening pending regulatory approval, the project maintains continuity for the Harvey market while completing the shift from riverboat to permanent structure that the 2018 law made possible.