Boyd Gaming Plans $100M Casino Replacement for Struggling Par-A-Dice
Boyd Gaming has revealed plans to replace the struggling Par-A-Dice Riverboat Casino in East Peoria with a new entertainment facility. The project, expected to start construction in 2026 if approved this year, has sparked debate over its location and potential tax revenue for Peoria and East Peoria.
Par-A-Dice Casino has faced financial challenges in recent years, with gross gaming revenue dropping from $82.5 million in 2016 to $60.5 million in 2023. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these issues. Boyd Gaming, the casino's owner, has not disclosed detailed financial information for Par-A-Dice, but its overall revenue has shown growth in the latest quarterly earnings.
The new facility is in the final stages of design and regulatory approval. Boyd Gaming plans to invest around $100 million in the project, similar to its Treasure Chest Casino in Louisiana. However, the company has not confirmed whether the new facility will be land-based or riverboat. This uncertainty has created tension between Peoria and East Peoria, as both cities hope to secure the significant tax revenue a new games facility could generate.
Boyd Gaming's plans to replace the Par-A-Dice Riverboat Casino with a new entertainment facility could bring significant investment and potential news to the Peoria area. The final stages of design and regulatory approval are underway, with construction expected to start in 2026 if approved this year. The location of the new facility, however, remains uncertain and a topic of discussion between Peoria and East Peoria.
