Summary:
- The application process can begin after June 30.
- If the license is approved, a casino and resort will be created on the Cedar River.
- Linn County residents want to see a casino come to the area.
This week, Peninsula Pacific Entertainment (P2E) and Linn County Gaming Association announced that the Iowa Gaming Association would apply for a gaming license. A moratorium in the state will expire on June 30, paving the way for licensing applications to start rolling in for a Iowa casino in Cedar Crossing, on the banks of the Cedar River.
New Casino Possible for Cedar Crossing
We may soon see a casino approved for Cedar Crossing if P2E is able to secure licensing in the area. Jonathan Swain, a P2E Board Member, stated that now is the time for Cedar Crossing to enjoy a casino venue. Linn County residents whole-heartedly approved two referendums regarding gaming that will bring a casino to the region, providing an entertainment destination for locals and visitors.
If approved, a casino would donate 8% of its annual gaming revenues to local nonprofit organizations. A local casino would benefit the community, and with Cedar Crossing, as much as $5-$7 million in profits may be generated annually.
Residents passed referendums in 2013 and 2021, so a casino in the area has been a long time coming. Cedar Crossing is now in the final stages, and once licensing is approved, the venue will be closer to fruition. It is expected that the casino venue will bring in large tourism numbers as well as revenues for the county and state.
Local Government and Trade Unions on Board
With the announcement of the licensing application from P2E, local officials and trade unions have shown more support. Cedar Rapids Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell stated that the city’s commitment to the Gaming Association remains steadfast.
The mayor pointed out that the development team continues to show dedication by providing a vision for a casino that highlights the potential of the community to become a modern entertainment and gaming destination.
Kirsten Running-Marquardt, the Linn County Board of Supervisors chair, stated that they also support Cedar Crossing. She pointed out in a recent approval statement that a new casino would bring new jobs such as live dealers to the area along with tourism and feature unmatched entertainment options.
Once up and running, a casino will allow Linn County to benefit from gaming operations, as other counties in Iowa already do. P2E is expected to apply for licensing as soon as the memorandum expires, which will be after June 30. It will be interesting to see if any additional companies try to vie for licensing as well.
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