Shreveport, Louisiana – In a move that has surprised many in the gaming industry, Shreveport’s Diamond Jacks Casino may soon be transformed into a land-based operation. The casino, which has been a floating riverboat casino since it first opened its doors in 1993, is reportedly in talks with city officials to make the transition to a stationary facility.
This potential change comes on the heels of recent legislation passed by the Louisiana state government that allows riverboat casinos to become land-based operations. The move is seen as a way to modernize the state’s gaming industry and attract more visitors to the area.
If the transformation of Diamond Jacks Casino is approved, the property will undergo significant renovations to accommodate the shift from a riverboat to a land-based facility. Plans include adding a hotel, restaurants, and other amenities to create a full-service resort destination.
“We believe that turning Diamond Jacks into a land-based casino will not only benefit our business but also the local community,” said casino spokesperson, Mark Thompson. “By offering more entertainment options and upscale accommodations, we hope to attract a wider range of visitors and provide a new level of excitement for our guests.”
The potential change has garnered mixed reactions from residents and other casino operators in Shreveport. Some see it as a positive development that will bring more jobs and revenue to the area, while others are concerned about the potential impact on existing businesses and the community as a whole.
“We are excited about the possibility of Diamond Jacks becoming a land-based operation,” said Shreveport resident, Sarah Roberts. “It will bring more opportunities for entertainment and hopefully attract more tourists to our city.”
On the other hand, some local business owners are worried about the competition that a larger, more upscale casino could bring to the area. “We already have several casinos in Shreveport, and adding another one could hurt our business,” said Jimmy Johnson, owner of a nearby restaurant. “We’re concerned about what this change will mean for us.”
Despite the mixed reactions, it appears that the transformation of Diamond Jacks Casino into a land-based operation is on track to move forward. City officials are expected to vote on the proposal in the coming months, and if approved, the renovations could begin as early as next year.
Overall, the potential change is seen as a significant development for the Shreveport gaming industry and could bring new opportunities for both the casino and the community. As the debate continues, residents and stakeholders will be closely watching to see how this transformation unfolds.
