In a surprising twist, Boyd Gaming has unveiled a new strategy for its Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino in East Peoria, Illinois.
During the Illinois Gaming Board's meeting, Boyd announced a shift from its previous renovation plan, opting instead to move the casino floor and gaming amenities to a fixed barge on the Illinois River.
Originally, Boyd Gaming's proposal for a $160 million redevelopment included constructing a modernized riverboat casino on East Peoria soil. It was rejected by the city council.
This plan featured an artificial basin to maintain its classification as a “riverboat” in compliance with state regulations. However, it drew strong opposition from Peoria due to potential revenue losses, resulting in legal battles that stalled the redevelopment efforts.
This newly announced barge-based solution comes amid ongoing tensions with the City of Peoria and aims to resolve these disputes while allowing for much-needed property modernization.
Background: A Riverboat with a Rich History
Par-A-Dice has long been a fixture on the Illinois River, initially operating as a floating gambling vessel and later transitioning to a river-adjacent casino in East Peoria.
Under Illinois law, casinos in this region are generally restricted to the Peoria side of the river due to a historic agreement made in 1991 between Peoria and East Peoria.
This deal was designed to ensure economic benefits and tax revenues were appropriately shared, largely keeping land-based casinos out of East Peoria.
A New Barge-Based Solution
The recently announced barge plan is Boyd's latest attempt to navigate these complex waters.
By moving the casino onto a permanently moored barge directly on the river, Boyd hopes to comply more strictly with the Illinois Gaming Act and honor the Peoria–East Peoria agreement. This adjustment could render Peoria's legal challenges moot, as the casino would technically remain a riverboat rather than a land-based establishment on East Peoria's side.
What's Next for Boyd and Peoria?
Despite the potential breakthrough, the Illinois Gaming Board has not yet voted on Boyd's revised plan.
They have chosen to delay the decision for further review, with a special meeting expected in the next few weeks. Meanwhile, Peoria's leadership, represented by Mayor Rita Ali, is examining the details to ensure the plan aligns with legal and intergovernmental agreements.
Boyd Gaming's strategic pivot could finally resolve the longstanding dispute and begin property modernization, potentially starting construction as early as 2027 if approved. Yet questions remain about whether the barge truly satisfies all legal requirements and the intent behind the historic agreements.
As developments continue to unfold quickly, the saga of the Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino remains one to watch.
