Major Expansion Project Announced for Atlantic City’s Historic Casino

In a bold stride towards revamping its tourism and gaming appeal, Atlantic City has announced a major expansion project for one of its most historic casinos. This ambitious plan, which aims to attract a broader demographic of visitors and revitalize the local economy, was unveiled early this Monday morning.

The project, spearheaded by the renowned Boardwalk Regency Corporation, involves an estimated $250 million development plan for the Casino Royale, a fixture on the Atlantic City boardwalk since 1978. The renovation and expansion effort is set to introduce a variety of new attractions, including a state-of-the-art digital gaming hub, a luxury wellness center, and an expansive retail complex.

“We are committed to transforming Casino Royale into a modern entertainment destination while preserving its unique heritage,” stated Maria Ellison, CEO of Boardwalk Regency Corporation, during the press release. “Our vision is to create a space that not only revitalizes the casino but also enhances the entire Atlantic City boardwalk experience.”

The expansion project is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the region, including the creation of over 800 jobs during the construction phase and around 400 permanent positions once the new facilities are operational. Additionally, the development is projected to boost local tourism, with new attractions geared towards not only gamblers but also families and non-gaming tourists.

Key features of the Casino Royale expansion include:
– The Digital Gaming Hub: This cutting-edge facility will cater to younger visitors and tech-savvy gamblers with virtual reality gaming stations, e-sports arenas, and advanced slot machines.
– Wellness Center: Spanning 30,000 square feet, the wellness center will offer spa services, fitness classes, and health-conscious dining options, aiming to provide a relaxing counterbalance to the dynamic casino floor.
– Retail Complex: Over 50,000 square feet of retail space will host a variety of shops, from high-end boutiques to popular global brands, enhancing the shopping experience in Atlantic City.

Urban development experts see this project as a significant positive movement for Atlantic City, which has faced economic challenges and stiff competition from newer gaming destinations in recent years. “The expansion of Casino Royale is a strategic move that revitalizes one of the city’s key assets,” explained Dr. Lorraine Fisher, an urban studies professor at Rutgers University. “It’s not just about gambling; it’s about creating a multifaceted entertainment environment that has wide appeal.”

The casino expansion project also includes ecological considerations, such as energy-efficient building practices and a focus on sustainable operations, aligning with broader environmental goals of the region.

Local business owners are enthusiastic about the potential increase in visitors. “The new project will definitely bring more people through our doors,” said Anika Patel, owner of a nearby restaurant. “It’s an exciting development that promises growth for all of us on the boardwalk.”

The rollout of the project will occur in phases, with the digital gaming hub set to open late next year and additional components following through 2025. The Boardwalk Regency Corporation has committed to keeping the community informed and engaged throughout the development process.

As Atlantic City embarks on this ambitious project, stakeholders from all sectors—economic, cultural, and social—are keenly watching, hopeful that this significant investment will herald a new era of prosperity and innovation for the iconic seaside gaming destination.