The Cordish Companies, through its affiliate LRGC Gaming Investors, has commenced construction on a more than $270m gaming, hotel, dining, and entertainment destination in the US.
Being developed on the site of the former Diamond Jacks Casino & Hotel in Bossier City, the Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana project includes the first land-based casino in the Shreveport-Bossier market.
It is expected to generate gaming tax revenues of $35m for the City of Bossier and more than $168m in gaming tax revenues for the state within the first five years of operation.
Furthermore, the project is expected to create approximately 750 new construction jobs and 750 permanent gaming and hospitality jobs.
The Cordish Companies chair Jon Cordish said: "Today marks an incredibly special day for my family and The Cordish Companies as we continue to expand our Live! brand in the Southeast region of the country with the development of Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana.
"With the first land-based casino in the market, Live! Casino will be a transformative development that will bring a first-class gaming and entertainment experience to millions of visitors, create significant new jobs, and generate millions of dollars in economic benefits for the community for generations to come.”
Planned to open in 2025, the project is located along the Red River, directly across from Shreveport, with access off US Highway 71 and Interstate 20.
The project will comprise more than 47,000ft² of gaming space, including over 1,000 slots and electronic table games and over 40 live table games; a sportsbook; a 550-room hotel, resort pool and fitness centre; and surface parking.
Additional features will include a 25,000ft² multipurpose Event Center for entertainment, meetings, conventions, and non-profit social gatherings; 30,000ft² of dining entertainment venues; and a steakhouse; among others.
