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A casino does not always need to float to qualify as a riverboat in Illinois. Boyd Gaming now tests that idea with a design that blends concrete, water, and regulation into one carefully measured proposal.
Good to Know
- Boyd Gaming proposed a modernized riverboat casino in East Peoria
- A 1,000 gallon water basin would sit beneath the structure
- The design aims to meet Illinois riverboat gambling rules
A riverboat without moving across the river
Boyd Gaming presented plans to the Illinois Gaming Board for a new casino structure next to the Par-A-Dice Hotel in East Peoria. The proposal centers on a modernized riverboat design that relies on a 1,000 gallon water basin beneath the building.
The basin would be fed by the Illinois River and sit directly under the casino floor. Boyd argues that setup satisfies state law allowing riverboat gambling on any water within Illinois, even though the facility would otherwise function as a land based casino.
The approach also avoids relocating the casino across the Illinois River into Peoria. A 1991 agreement between East Peoria and Peoria required relocation if land based casino gaming became legal, which lawmakers approved in 2019. Boyd views the water basin as a way to remain compliant without triggering that requirement.
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Legal space inside a narrow rule
Illinois gaming law does not define how much water qualifies for riverboat gambling. Boyd leans into that gap. The company told regulators the underground basin meets the legal threshold, even if the structure never leaves dry ground.
That interpretation now sits with the Illinois Gaming Board, which heard the proposal during a recent meeting.
Peoria officials said they first learned of the updated plan during that presentation. City leaders plan to review the proposal with legal counsel before deciding how to respond.
A bid to reverse a long slide
Boyd also wants to reset the casino financial trajectory. Annual revenue at the property dropped from $82.5 million in 2006 to $60.5 million last year.
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Under the current structure, Peoria and East Peoria split the casino share of the 5% local gaming tax. East Peoria also keeps additional revenue tied to hotel stays, dining, entertainment, and events.
By staying in East Peoria, Boyd preserves that arrangement while attempting to refresh demand.
What the new casino would include
Plans outline a 29,000 square foot casino floor paired with more than 20,000 square feet of meeting space. Boyd also included an upscale steakhouse, a beer pub, and a new porte cochere entrance.
The existing Par-A-Dice riverboat currently offers 550 slot machines, 18 table games, and a FanDuel sportsbook. The new structure could support additional gaming positions once approved.
From a visitor perspective, the shift would feel like a full rebuild rather than a small renovation.
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