PENN Entertainment Breaks Ground on New Hollywood Casino Hotel in Council Bluffs

PENN Entertainment has started construction on a new land-based casino complex in Council Bluffs, Iowa, with a formal groundbreaking ceremony marking the launch of the Hollywood Casino Hotel Council Bluffs development. This $180–200 million project will replace the current Ameristar Council Bluffs riverboat operation and introduce a full-scale facility that includes roughly 1,000 slot machines along with 25 live table games plus two fresh food and beverage outlets. Observers note that the new venue is slated to open in 2028 once regulatory approvals clear and after an estimated 18–24 months of building activity while the existing riverboat keeps running without interruption. The development sits on land and shifts the operation away from its current riverboat setup toward a permanent structure designed to expand entertainment and dining choices in the region. Company representatives have confirmed that the riverboat will stay open throughout the construction phase so that gaming access remains steady for visitors and employees alike. Data from project filings shows the timeline aligns with standard permitting processes in Iowa where state regulators review plans before full-scale work proceeds.

Construction Timeline and Operational Continuity

Construction crews are expected to work over the next 18 to 24 months with an anticipated completion window that points toward a 2028 debut. During this period the riverboat casino will continue to operate normally which allows the site to maintain its current revenue streams and employment levels without a break in service. Project managers have outlined that the land-based build will feature modern infrastructure while the riverboat serves as a temporary bridge until the new complex is ready for guests.

Regulatory approvals remain a key step in the process and PENN Entertainment has stated that the company will work closely with Iowa authorities to meet all requirements before the facility opens. As of September 2026 the planning and early site work phases are moving forward while detailed engineering reviews continue in parallel with construction mobilization.

Employment and Economic Contributions

The project is projected to generate around 450 construction jobs during the building phase and roughly 50 new permanent positions once the Hollywood Casino Hotel Council Bluffs begins operations. These figures come from company estimates tied to the overall investment size and the scope of the new facility. Local workforce agencies in the Council Bluffs area have already begun coordinating with contractors to match available labor with project needs.

Observers note that the shift to a land-based operation may support longer-term stability for the property since it removes dependence on river conditions that can affect riverboat access. The addition of two new food and beverage concepts is expected to broaden the appeal beyond gaming alone and create varied dining options for both day visitors and overnight guests.

Facility Features and Market Context

The planned complex will house approximately 1,000 slot machines and 25 live table games which represents a modest expansion in table game capacity compared with the current riverboat configuration. Two new dining venues form part of the initial build-out and are designed to complement the gaming floor with quick-service and full-service options. Project documents indicate that the overall design prioritizes efficient flow between gaming areas and food outlets while meeting modern accessibility standards.

According to information shared through industry reporting channels the total investment range of $180–200 million covers both the structure and the initial outfitting of gaming and hospitality spaces. This scale of development reflects broader patterns in the regional casino sector where operators move from temporary or water-based venues toward permanent land facilities to improve guest experience and operational efficiency.

Regulatory and Approval Process

Iowa regulators oversee casino licensing and construction through established review procedures that include environmental assessments and compliance checks. PENN Entertainment has indicated that the company will submit all required documentation in a timely manner so that the 2028 opening target stays on track. The continuation of riverboat operations during construction provides a buffer that keeps the property compliant with existing license terms while the new build advances.

Those who have followed similar projects in the Midwest note that the 18–24 month construction window is typical for facilities of this size once ground is broken and permits are secured. The addition of hotel elements alongside the casino floor distinguishes this development from the current riverboat model and aligns with trends toward integrated resort-style offerings in secondary markets.

Conclusion

The groundbreaking for the Hollywood Casino Hotel Council Bluffs marks a clear transition point for PENN Entertainment’s Iowa operations as the company moves from a riverboat platform to a permanent land-based complex. With projected job creation during construction and a modest increase in permanent roles the project carries measurable economic weight for the Council Bluffs community. The 2028 opening date remains subject to regulatory approvals yet the continued operation of the existing riverboat ensures uninterrupted service throughout the build phase. As work progresses the details of the new facility including its slot and table game counts along with the two new food and beverage outlets will become more visible to the public.