Cedar Rapids officials have approved a host agreement for a proposed $275 million casino resort development. The City Council voted 8-1 in favor of partnering with Cedar Rapids Development Group (CRDG) and the Linn County Gaming Association for the Cedar Crossing Casino project.

Key Agreement Details:

• CRDG will purchase 25 acres of city-owned land west of Cedar River
• City will receive 2.25% of gross gaming revenue
• Linn County Gaming Association will get 8% of net gaming proceeds for charitable causes
• State will collect 22% tax on gaming revenue
• Developer must fund flood mitigation and traffic improvements

Project Specifications:

• 110,000 square-foot facility
• 39,000 square feet of gaming space
• 17,000 square feet for restaurants
• 16,000 square feet of event space
• 5,000 square-foot cultural center and STEM lab

Current Status:

• Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) is reviewing market feasibility studies
• Vote expected on February 6, 2025
• Legal challenge pending from Elite Casino Resorts regarding 2021 referendum validity
• Project faces opposition from existing Iowa casinos citing market saturation concerns

This marks CRDG's third attempt to secure a gaming license for Cedar Rapids, following failed bids in 2014 and 2017. The project has strong local support, with Mayor Tiffany O'Donnell and seven council members backing the development. Only Councilor Ashley Vanorny opposed the agreement, citing concerns about indoor smoking allowance.

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