Cedar Rapids Development Group welcomes Judge’s rejection of Riverside Casino’s complaint
The Linn County Gaming Association and Cedar Rapids Development Group are very pleased that Iowa District Court Judge Michael Schilling has rejected Riverside Casino & Golf Resort’s attempt to invalidate the gaming license for Cedar Crossing Casino & Entertainment Center.
The Court’s thorough 76-page order rejected Riverside’s claim and held that the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission properly issued the license on Feb. 6, 2025. LCGA and CRDG will continue to develop the $275 million project, which will generate hundreds of jobs in Linn County and more than $6 million in annual contributions to community nonprofits.
The Court found that the IRGC properly awarded the gaming license to LCGA and CRDG, that the IRGC carefully considered 420 written comments and heard from many local residents, and that each of the IRGC commissioners fairly and independently evaluated the project.
The Court also affirmed the IRGC’s findings that the project is in the best interest of Linn County as well as the State of Iowa. The Court found that substantial evidence supports a finding that “[t]he voters approved gambling games in Linn County for a second time,” and the IRGC properly awarded a license to LCGA and CRDG. Accordingly, the Court denied Riverside’s petition in its entirety and affirmed the IRGC’s action.
“Today’s ruling is a victory for the people of Cedar Rapids. Our residents knew exactly what they were voting for: A transformational project that will create jobs, generate revenue, and add vibrancy to our city. We’ve always said we would follow the will of the voters, and now, with this decision, we can move forward with confidence and unity toward the future Cedar Rapidians chose,” said Cedar Rapids Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell.
The casino is to be built on the former Cooper’s Mill site, on Cedar Rapids’ northwest side. It will be the largest gaming project in Iowa’s history and one of the largest development plans in recent memory. At its heart, the project includes 700 slot machines and 22 table games, delivering an unparalleled gaming experience. Destined to be more than just a casino, Cedar Crossing will be designed to be a premier entertainment destination.
Market study results show $80.2m in new revenue to the state of Iowa because of Cedar Crossing. The study, commissioned by P2E and conducted by Convergence Strategy Group (CSG), also forecasts job creation and revenues for the proposed project.
