Boyd Gaming has unveiled plans to replace its long running riverboat casino in East Peoria, Illinois, with a new purpose built facility that will remain legally classified as a riverboat casino. The proposal aims to modernise the Par A Dice Casino while allowing the company to continue operating at its current location under Illinois gambling law.
Earlier, Boyd Gaming renewed its technology agreement with gaming-technology supplier IGT PlaySports, securing an extension that meant IGT’s PlaySports platform continued to power Boyd’s retail and mobile sportsbook operations in Nevada through at least August 2028.
Replacing the Par A Dice Riverboat
Boyd Gaming currently operates the Par A Dice Casino on an actual riverboat docked along the Illinois River. The casino is supported by a land based hotel located next to the vessel. Under the new proposal, Boyd plans to retire the riverboat and construct a traditional style building on land.
Although the structure will look like a land based casino, Boyd has designed the project to meet the legal definition of a riverboat casino in Illinois. The plan includes a 1,000 gallon water basin beneath the casino floor. This basin will be fed directly by water from the Illinois River and will sit under the concrete slab of the new building.
Illinois law allows gambling upon any water within the state. By including river water beneath the gaming floor, Boyd’s new casino would continue to qualify as a riverboat casino under existing regulations. Gaming enthusiasts are increasingly turning to best USA online casinos as an additional way to access regulated gaming options
Details of the proposed new casino
If approved, the new casino building will be constructed against the south side of the existing Par A Dice Hotel. The facility will feature a 29,000 square foot gaming area, providing space for slot machines and table games.
In addition to gaming, the development will include a 20,000 square foot meeting and events area. Boyd also plans to add a steakhouse and a pub, expanding the entertainment and dining options available to visitors.
The design reflects a shift towards more modern casino facilities that combine gaming with hospitality, food, and event spaces in a single location.
East Peoria matters
Boyd Gaming’s plan is closely linked to a long standing agreement dating back to 1991. Under that agreement, if traditional land based casinos were permitted in the region, the casino licence would need to move from East Peoria to the city of Peoria.
However, the agreement does not apply to riverboat casinos. By ensuring the new facility meets the riverboat definition, Boyd can legally remain in East Peoria and avoid relocating its operations.
This approach allows Boyd to invest in a new property without triggering licence relocation requirements.
Addressing long term revenue decline
The proposal comes as the Par A Dice Casino has faced declining revenue over the past 20 years. The ageing riverboat has struggled to compete with newer casinos and changing customer expectations.
Replacing the riverboat with a modern facility is intended to improve operational efficiency and create a more attractive environment for guests. The updated layout and added amenities could help stabilise performance at the East Peoria site.
Next steps for approval
Boyd Gaming has submitted its proposal to the relevant state and local authorities. The project will require regulatory approval before construction can begin.
If approved, the new riverboat casino facility would mark a significant change for gambling operations in East Peoria while remaining fully compliant with Illinois gaming laws.
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