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The news of Bossier City’s Diamond Jacks Casino demolition should come as no surprise to those living in the area. In December, the Louisiana Gaming Control Board (LGCB) approved the sale of the riverboat casino to Foundation Gaming.
On Jan. 19, Louisiana Assistant Attorney General Lisha Landry made it official by presenting the license request approval to the LGCB. So, for now, it appears all major hurdles have been cleared for Foundation Gaming’s Louisiana casino venture.
A new land-based casino is a $200 million overhaul
It seemed inevitable that the aging establishment would be overhauled and by doing so, construction on a new land-based casino and hotel at the Bossier City location can commence.
The new Louisiana casino comes with a price tag just south of 200 million dollars, which doesn’t reflect financing costs. Customers of the new casino will have a bevy of spectacles to indulge in, such as:
- A brand-new gaming space
- Retail shops
- A spa
- An all-new sportsbook betting lounge
- A complete revamp of the existing hotel
In addition to those amenities, the massive undertaking will offer guests 405 new rooms with 20 suites. As well as meeting areas for business functions. The target date for completion is in late 2024.
Diamond Jacks will be the 6th casino in Shreveport Bossier City
Riverboat casinos, once the bedrock of Louisiana casino entertainment, are now phasing out by developers in favor of land-based venues. While there is a lot to be excited about, there is also some cause for concern.
The Shreveport Bossier City market already has five existing casino properties. And some wonder if a sixth property will oversaturate the market. Only time will tell.
Bossier City’s mayor, Tommy Chandler, doesn’t seem to think a surplus of casinos will be an issue. According to an interview with KEEL News, Mayor Chandler stated:
“We are thrilled to know this project will be kicking off in the next few weeks. Bringing this property back to life will have a significant positive impact on the local economy and tourism market.”
