Harvey's Riverboat Casino Chapter Closes as PENN Entertainment Funds New Hollywood Casino New Orleans

PENN Entertainment has outlined a $195 million investment that will move the existing Boomtown Casino & Hotel New Orleans riverboat operations from its current location in Harvey Louisiana to a new adjacent land-based facility branded as Hollywood Casino New Orleans and the project remains subject to regulatory approval while developers project an opening in 2029.

The planned development covers 140000 to 145000 square feet and will include approximately 875 slot machines along with 45 table games a retail sportsbook dining options and additional guest amenities all positioned to replace the riverboat format that has operated in the area for years.

Project Scope and Timeline Details

Company announcements indicate the relocation keeps the operation in Harvey yet shifts it from water to solid ground and this move aligns with a broader pattern that began after Louisiana passed a 2018 law allowing riverboat casinos to transition onshore when certain conditions are met.

Construction planning targets completion by 2029 although final dates depend on approvals from state gaming regulators and local authorities who must review site plans environmental assessments and operational licensing before any work begins.

Regulatory Path and Industry Context

Observers note that the 2018 legislation opened doors for several riverboat operators across Louisiana to pursue similar onshore projects and Penn Entertainment's proposal follows that established route while maintaining employment and tax contributions in Jefferson Parish.

State records show multiple properties have already completed or started comparable transitions since the law took effect and this latest announcement continues the momentum without introducing new policy changes.

Economic and Operational Considerations

Company filings detail that the land-based Hollywood Casino New Orleans will operate under the same gaming license framework as the current riverboat while offering expanded floor space that accommodates the listed gaming positions plus non-gaming revenue streams such as food and beverage outlets.

Local economic data compiled by state agencies reflect steady casino tax contributions from the Harvey location over recent years and the transition is expected to preserve those revenue streams once the new facility opens.

Community and Infrastructure Factors

Planning documents submitted to regulators describe improved access for guests through expanded parking and pedestrian pathways that connect directly to surrounding roads in Harvey and these features address longstanding limitations associated with boarding a riverboat.

Workforce continuity remains a stated priority in the announcement with current employees positioned to transition into roles at the land-based site and training programs are referenced as part of the overall project timeline.

Looking Ahead to 2029

By August 2026 project teams anticipate completion of initial permitting reviews and early site preparation work while final design refinements continue in coordination with state and parish officials.

Progress updates from Penn Entertainment will likely arrive through quarterly investor reports that track capital expenditures and milestone achievements leading up to the targeted 2029 debut.

Conclusion

The relocation of Boomtown Casino & Hotel New Orleans operations to the new Hollywood Casino New Orleans facility represents a measured step within the framework established by the 2018 state law and the $195 million commitment underscores the scale of investment required to complete such a transition by the projected opening date.