Nevada: Boyd Gaming breaks ground on Cadence Crossing Casino in Henderson

Boyd Gaming has officially begun construction on Cadence Crossing Casino, its new gaming and entertainment destination along Boulder Highway in Henderson, Nevada. The project, which will replace the long-standing Joker’s Wild Casino, aims to meet the growing demand of the nearby 12,000-home Cadence community.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held on April 3, bringing together Boyd Gaming executives and City of Henderson leaders. Among the attendees were Boyd Gaming Executive Chairman Marianne Johnson, President and CEO Keith Smith, Chief Operating Officer Ted Bogich, Executive Vice President of Operations Steve Schutte, and Henderson Mayor Michelle Romero.

“Cadence Crossing will allow us to better serve the rapidly-growing master-planned community of Cadence – and to further expand our presence in Henderson as the Cadence community continues to grow in the years ahead,” said Schutte, marking the event as part of the company’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

The new property, which will remain modest in scale compared to Strip resorts, is expected to open in mid-2026. It will feature a 10,000-square-foot casino floor with 450 slot machines, along with multiple food and beverage outlets yet to be announced. 

Joker’s Wild will continue operations until Cadence Crossing is completed, after which it will be demolished to make room for parking.

Cadence Crossing marks Boyd’s first new ground-up development in two decades and will be constructed in phases aligned with the continued expansion of the Cadence neighborhood. Long-term plans include the addition of a hotel and expanded amenities.

The 50,000-square-foot facility is part of a $100 million capital expenditure plan that also includes renovations at one of Boyd’s out-of-state properties.

During her address, Mayor Romero highlighted how the new casino complements a $170 million infrastructure upgrade along Boulder Highway, where transformation efforts are underway. 

“In a few years, we will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Boulder Highway, and it will be completely transformed… We are thrilled that Boyd is one of the first to make a significant investment in the future of Boulder Highway,” she said.

Schutte noted that while specific employment figures were not disclosed, the new casino would employ significantly more team members than Joker’s Wild. Construction job estimates were also not provided.

Boyd Gaming’s footprint in the Boulder Highway area includes Sam’s Town and the currently closed Eastside Cannery. Cadence Crossing adds to its existing portfolio of properties catering to the locals market in Southern Nevada.