Cedar Crossing to Raise Bar for Entertainment in Iowa

Casino operator and nonprofit partner to apply for gaming license for Cedar Rapids facility after moratorium expires on June 30, 2024

 CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (June 26, 2024) – Today, Peninsula Pacific Entertainment (P2E), a national gaming operator and developer, and the Linn County Gaming Association (LCGA), a local nonprofit association, announce their intent to jointly apply for a gaming license with the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) after the state moratorium on new licenses expires on June 30, 2024.

“The time is now for Cedar Crossing,” said P2E Board Member Jonathan Swain. “Linn County residents have overwhelmingly passed two gaming referendums and they have been patient. With the moratorium expiring soon, we look forward to bringing an unprecedented casino gaming and entertainment destination to Cedar Rapids.”

If granted a license, Cedar Crossing plans to support local nonprofits with contributions of 8% of its annual gaming revenue – the highest in the state. While Iowa mandates that licensed casinos donate at least 3% to nonprofit organizations, Cedar Crossing aims to significantly exceed this requirement to make a meaningful impact in the community.

“People like to count us out, though we are part of a resilient community. Linn County has come back stronger than before – and we’re going to do it again with Cedar Crossing,” said LCGA President Anne Parmley. “A local casino will help our communities be even more vibrant: We estimate that Cedar Crossing will be able to commit $5 million to $7 million to nonprofits annually. This will be a major boost to local organizations, and just one of the many ways this project will make Linn County an even better place to live, work and visit.” 

In 2013 and 2021, Linn County residents passed public referendums authorizing gaming in the county. The 2021 vote, Public Measure G, permanently authorizes gaming in the county, enabling P2E to develop plans to bring an entertainment and gaming facility to the county. Residents will not have to vote for a third measure.

Cedar Crossing is proposed to be located along the west side of the Cedar River between Kingston Village and Time Check Park. The structure will provide important flood protection infrastructure along the west side of the river, helping to further revitalize the area.

“Our commitment to building a world-class destination has never wavered,” said Swain. “We are in the final stages of finalizing our vision for Cedar Crossing and look forward to setting a new standard for gaming and entertainment in Iowa.”

In addition to county residents, the project has long been supported by several local government officials and trade unions.

 “From the resounding support of Linn County voters to recent legislative developments and today’s announcement, our commitment to the Linn County Gaming Association has remained steadfast,” said Cedar Rapids Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell. “The development team continues to demonstrate their dedication to Cedar Rapids with a vision for a casino that highlights our community’s potential as a modern entertainment and gaming destination. I am confident their next proposal will bring significant benefits to Cedar Rapids and Linn County as a whole, offering unmatched opportunities for our residents and visitors while providing vital support for community organizations to advance and thrive.”

 In addition to Mayor O’Donnell, Linn County Board of Supervisors Chair Kirsten Running-Marquardt supports Cedar Crossing.

“Linn County residents support casino gambling in Linn County,” Running-Marquardt said. “This investment in our community would increase opportunity for our local economy in several ways, including job creation, tourism and providing unmatched entertainment options. Like other Iowa counties, we are looking for a fair chance for the people of Linn County to receive these benefits for our community.”