Pinnacle Offers Many Amenities With Baton Rouge Casino Proposal

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana – As reported by the Advocate: "Pinnacle Entertainment’s proposed south Baton Rouge riverboat casino would offer a menu of amenities, including restaurants,
Pinnacle Entertainment  spas and big-name entertainment acts, company executives said Wednesday.

"Commenting after a meeting with state gambling regulators, Pinnacle President Wade Hundley acknowledged the company could face stiff opposition but predicted it will ultimately win public support once residents become more familiar with its plans.

"Late last month, Pinnacle filed a formal petition to seek approval for a $250 million casino and 300-room hotel resort. The project would be built on a 55-acre tract connecting to the Mississippi River near River Road and Bluebonnet Boulevard.

"Opponents already have complained that the area is residential and inappropriate for a casino. They also point to a market study indicating the Baton Rouge market isn’t big enough for three boats in the face of expanding competition from Mississippi casinos.

"Economist Loren Scott concludes in the study that a third Baton Rouge casino would siphon revenue from Casino Rouge and the Belle of Baton Rouge with a glut of slot machines.

"The study — commissioned by Casino Rouge — also predicts that a third boat would drive out one of the existing competitors. . ."