Louisiana: Hollywood Baton Rouge's in-land relocation delayed amid supply chain disruptions, inflation

Hollywood Casino Baton Rouge, the first riverboat casino in Louisiana's capital city to announce its move onto land, has encountered setbacks in the construction of its new venue. While the move —first announced in August of 2021— was expected to be completed earlier this year, it has now been delayed with supply chain and river water levels being listed among the main issues.

Ronnie Johns, the Chairman of the state’s Gaming Control Board, explained there is a shortage of steel supply, a basic commodity that they “are having a hard time” getting. The price of steel is up 25%, and inflation is at over 9% over the last year.  

The price of building materials has also been affected by inflation. Hollywood had originally projected a budget of $60 million. The figure has now escalated to $100 million.

Thankfully, labor, which has been an issue for many businesses and industries, has not affected this project. “Not to my knowledge they’ve not, but the good thing about this project is that they have not had to close the existing riverboat casino unlike the Horseshoe here in Lake Charles, which was severely damaged by Hurricane Laura two years ago”, Johns added, as reported by WAFB Channel 9. 

Groundbreaking ceremony for the upcoming property

However, inflation remains the main concern for Hollywood, not only for the new development but for its reach and effect on potential customers. According to Johns, the market is “watching very closely”, as several casinos across the states have shown concerns regarding this issue.  

The new projections for the opening date are estimated to be around the second quarter of 2023. The Hollywood Casino broke ground in August 2021 after a 2018 law allowed all Louisiana's riverboat casinos to move onto dry land. The project includes slots, a sports viewing area and a sportsbook.