Boyd Gaming proposes ‘modernized riverboat’ casino supported by 1,000-gallon water basin in East Peoria

Boyd Gaming has proposed building a “modernized riverboat” casino in East Peoria, Illinois, using a 1,000-gallon water basin beneath the structure to comply with state riverboat gambling rules and avoid relocating the property across the Illinois River to Peoria.

The company presented its plan to the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB), outlining a new facility that would sit adjacent to the Par-A-Dice Hotel, primarily on the south-facing side. The basin, fed by the Illinois River, is intended to satisfy a 1991 agreement between East Peoria and Peoria requiring a move to the western bank if land-based casino gaming were authorized, which state lawmakers approved in 2019.

Illinois law states that “riverboat gambling … may be authorized upon any water within the State of Illinois,” but does not specify how much water is required. Boyd argues the underground basin meets that threshold even though the structure is otherwise land-based.

Boyd is seeking to revive the casino’s performance after annual revenue fell from $82.5 million in 2006 to $60.5 million last year. Peoria and East Peoria split the property’s 5% local share of the state gaming tax, while East Peoria keeps other revenue from hotel, dining, entertainment, and events.

Peoria officials said they learned of the updated plans during the IGB meeting and will review the proposal with legal counsel before determining next steps.

The proposed development includes a 29,000-square-foot casino, more than 20,000 square feet of meeting space, a new upscale steakhouse, a beer pub, and a porte-cochere entrance. The existing Par-A-Dice riverboat offers 550 slot machines, 18 table games, and a FanDuel sportsbook, and the new casino could support additional gaming positions.

Boyd Gaming said the plan allows it to remain in East Peoria while bringing a larger, modernized facility to market under the state’s riverboat gaming framework.