The Biloxi Planning Commission has approved a casino developer’s request to rezone three parcels of land at the intersection of US 90/Beach Boulevard and Veterans Avenue for the proposed Black Marlin Casino. This marks a significant step forward in the long-anticipated development of the casino, which aims to transform the area that has been in the works for over 15 years.
Key Details:
- Developer: RW Development, led by local businessman Ray Wooldridge, in partnership with Kentucky-based Encompass Develop Design and Construct.
- Reclassification: The property was reclassified to waterfront zoning, allowing it to apply for a casino license from the Mississippi Gaming Commission (MGC).
- Environmental Considerations: The plan includes the removal of 28 trees, for which the developers must plant 209 new ones or contribute to the city’s tree fund.
Project Features:
- A 300-room hotel with multiple restaurants, bars, meeting spaces, and 668 parking spots.
- A casino measuring 43,800 square feet with 1,100 slot machines, 24 live table games, and a sportsbook.
- A $1 million handicap-accessible pier called the Veterans Avenue Pier, which aims to enhance public access to the waterfront.
The project now awaits approval from the Biloxi City Council and the MGC. If approved, Black Marlin Casino would become Biloxi’s ninth casino and the 13th in South Mississippi, amidst ongoing competition in the local market.
