Boyd Gaming applies to develop and operate new HHR gaming facility in Kansas

Las Vegas-based casino operator Boyd Gaming announced Tuesday it has applied to the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission (KRGC) to develop and operate a new historical horse-racing (HHR) gaming facility in Sedgwick County: Diamond Jo Park City. The new facility would be located along I-135 near the 77th Street exit.

However, there are several phases of the bidding process the company must complete. A public hearing will be held in April or May; if the proposal is approved, development and construction are expected to take about 18 months.

The new $160 million property would include a casino floor with up to 1,000 HHR units, a steakhouse, a FanDuel-themed sports bar and grill, a contemporary bar and lounge, new meeting and convention space, and the first Amazon Go store in the state of Kansas.

The company said Diamond Jo would become "a key driver of new visitation and economic development opportunities in Park City." Built with 100% private financing, the facility is expected to create nearly 600 jobs in the community, generating about $30 million per year in wages, salaries, and benefits, according to the casino business.

Additionally, the company estimates the property will generate approximately $90 million per year in additional economic activity throughout south-central Kansas.

In April 2022, the Kansas Legislature approved Senate Bill 84, legalizing sports wagering in Kansas. The new law went into effect July 1 of that year, including language that allows for "wagering to be conducted by an organization licensee at a facility located in Sedgwick County and only through historical horse race machines approved by the KRGC."

As a part of its proposal for Diamond Jo, Boyd Gaming pledged to donate $1 million annually to local non-profit organizations that provide healthcare and educational services to local veterans, reports KWCH.

Additionally, Diamond Jo would provide $250,000 per year in new funding for problem gambling treatment resources in south-central Kansas. Boyd has partnered with United Way of the Plains to administer Diamond Jo’s non-profit contributions.