The Rise of Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana: A New Era in Bossier City
Posted on: October 25, 2024
Last updated on: October 25, 2024
On the horizon of Bossier City, Louisiana, the transformation of a once-fallen diamond into a shining monument of entertainment and gaming is about to unfold. On Wednesday, The Cordish Companies proudly raised the iconic red "Live!" logo atop the soon-to-open Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana, signaling a reboot of the gaming scene in the region, especially after the closure of the former Diamond Jacks riverboat casino during the pandemic. With the grand opening anticipated in early 2025, this $270 million redevelopment promises to generate excitement and revitalization, not only for gaming enthusiasts but also for the local economy.
Image caption: Construction workers lift the Live! sign above the forthcoming Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana. The $270 million overhaul of the former Diamond Jacks property is expected to open early next year in Bossier City. (Image: The Cordish Companies)
A New Dawn for Bossier City
According to Joshua Robinson, the vice president of marketing for the upcoming resort, the installation of the Live! logo signifies not just a physical change but marks the “beginning of a new era.” Robinson remarked, "Putting the sign on the building is like putting the icing on the cake. It’s an exciting day. People are getting ready to get ‘live.’" The excitement surrounding the new development has echoed through the city, where residents eagerly await a rebirth of entertainment options.
Cordish’s strategic investment in Louisiana expands its presence in the gaming sector, which includes successful venues in Maryland and Pennsylvania. The company operates the Live! Casino & Hotel near Baltimore, in addition to properties in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. By entering the Louisiana market, Cordish aims to enhance its reputation as a leading player in the gaming industry while diversifying its portfolio.
From Diamond Jacks to a Live! Destination
The story of this transformation is steeped in history. Diamond Jacks was once a vibrant attraction but faced challenges that led to its permanent closure during the pandemic. The previous owners, Peninsula Pacific Entertainment, attempted to relocate to a different area but were met with community opposition. After selling the property to Foundation Gaming—with plans for renovation—Cordish stepped in, committing to a more significant overhaul that would bring life back to the iconic site.
With no prior experience in redeveloping distressed casinos, Cordish took a bold step, envisioning a vibrant new destination that includes a substantial 47,000-square-foot brick-and-mortar casino. The Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana will be designed as a premier entertainment hub featuring 1,000 slot machines, 40 live dealer tables, and a sportsbook, alongside upscale accommodations that aim to redefine hospitality in the region.
An Economic Boost for the Community
The financial implications of this project promise vast benefits for Bossier City. Cordish anticipates creating 750 permanent jobs with competitive wages, alongside generating $35 million in gaming taxes for the city over the first five years of operation and $168 million at the state level. Each of the 750 employees is projected to earn an estimated $34 million annually, translating to around $45,333 per employee—a considerable sum compared to the median household income in Bossier City of $54,100.
Moreover, the incoming casino is set to invigorate the local economy by prioritizing contracts with local, minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses, thereby fostering community growth and inclusivity.
A Comprehensive Resort Experience
Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana is planning more than just a gaming experience. The resort will feature:
- A 31-site RV park complete with concrete pads and full hookups
- 25,000 square feet of multipurpose event space
- A renovated outdoor pool for leisure and relaxation
With this array of developments, the casino’s reopening aims to return the Bossier City/Shreveport gaming market to six vibrant properties, joining existing competitors like Boomtown and Margaritaville.
Conclusion
As the Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana prepares to open its doors, anticipation builds for what promises to be a transformative addition to the Bossier City landscape. This redevelopment not only signifies the company’s commitment to enhancing the gaming experience but also underscores a powerful investment in the local community’s future. With robust offerings and significant economic benefits, the new Live! destination is set to become a cornerstone of entertainment and a beacon of growth in Northwest Louisiana. The public can hardly wait to see this grand vision come to life in a city prime for a new chapter.
