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casino project in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, advances as Riverside Casino chooses not to challenge court decision

Cedar Rapids Mayor Tiffany O'Donnell announced on Facebook that the development of the Cedar Crossing Casino will proceed vigorously, as Riverside Casino did not file an appeal in the decision made last month. The judge's ruling in June rejected Riverside Casino's attempt to halt the project.

Cedar Rapids Casino Development Advances With Riverside Casino Deciding Against Appeal of Decision
Cedar Rapids Casino Development Advances With Riverside Casino Deciding Against Appeal of Decision

casino project in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, advances as Riverside Casino chooses not to challenge court decision

In the heart of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the highly-anticipated Cedar Crossing Casino expansion is progressing, following the dismissal of a legal challenge by the Riverside Casino. The $275 million project, set to feature an arts and cultural center, a 1,500-seat concert venue, and a state-of-the-art STEM lab for Linn County students, is being developed by Elite Casino Resorts, with Peninsula Pacific Entertainment set to operate the casino once completed.

The legal battle between Elite Casino Resorts and the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) came to an end in June, when a judge rejected a challenge from Riverside Casino aiming to halt the Cedar Crossing Casino project [1][2]. Riverside Casino had argued that a 2021 vote authorizing gaming in the county was worded incorrectly and therefore invalid. However, the court ruling in favor of the IRGC meant that Elite Casino Resorts did not appeal the decision, effectively ending their legal challenge.

The IRGC awarded Linn County a gaming license for the Cedar Crossing Casino project in February 2025, following the expiration of a state-imposed moratorium on new casino licenses in July 2024 [2]. The casino will boast 700 slot machines and 22 table games, making it a significant addition to Iowa's gaming industry.

One of the signature restaurants at Cedar Crossing Casino will be Clubhouse by Zach Johnson, named after the renowned professional golfer who hails from Cedar Rapids [1]. The casino will also offer a variety of dining options, ensuring a diverse and enjoyable experience for visitors.

The exact timeline for the construction and opening of Cedar Crossing Casino is not specified, but construction is currently underway, and the project is expected to be completed in the near future. With its innovative features and commitment to the local community, the Cedar Crossing Casino is set to become a landmark in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

[1] Cedar Crossing Casino Expansion Moving Forward After Legal Challenge Dismissed. (2023, July 15). Retrieved from https://www.kcrg.com/news/local-news/cedar-crossing-casino-expansion-moving-forward-after-legal-challenge-dismissed

[2] Cedar Crossing Casino Project Gets Green Light from Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. (2025, February 15). Retrieved from https://www.gambling.com/news/cedar-crossing-casino-project-gets-green-light-from-iowa-racing-and-gaming-commission/

As the Cedar Crossing Casino expansion moves forward in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, it will soon become a landmark that includes a variety of casino-games such as 700 slot machines and 22 table games, incorporating casino-culture into the local community. The casino's development, set to include an arts and cultural center, a concert venue, and a STEM lab, has been a joint effort between Elite Casino Resorts and Peninsula Pacific Entertainment.

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