New Biloxi Casino Resort Site Officially Approved for Development in Mississippi

Significant casino development is underway in the region as the Mississippi Gaming Commission (MGC) has officially approved plans for a brand-new casino resort in Biloxi, marking a significant development in the region’s gaming landscape. The upcoming Tullis Gardens Hotel & Casino aims to be the first casino to grace Biloxi’s Gulf Coast since the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino opened its doors in June 2007.

Project Overview

During a meeting held this week, the MGC granted site approval for the Tullis Gardens Hotel and Casino, which will occupy a sprawling 35-acre plot located at 360 Beach Boulevard, just west of Harrah’s Gulf Coast. This site has received the MGC’s nod of approval as it meets all required gaming regulations and holds a tidelands lease with the state, a stipulation outlined in Mississippi’s casino legislation.

Historical Context

This project follows legislative amendments made post-Hurricane Katrina, which facilitate land-based gambling along the Gulf. Specifically, casino structures must be erected within 800 feet of the 19-year mean high water line. Developers, such as those behind Tullis Gardens, must secure leases with the state to utilize tidelands for construction.

About the Tullis Gardens Project

Helmed by Tennessee entrepreneur Israel Schwartz, the Tullis Gardens Hotel & Casino project seeks to pay tribute to the historic Tullis-Toledano Manor, a Greek Revival mansion that was constructed in the 1850s but was completely reclaimed by Hurricane Katrina’s devastation.

This remarkable proposal features an 11-story, 300-room hotel alongside more than 53,000 square feet dedicated to gaming. The casino will boast over 900 slot machines and 35 live-dealer table games, in addition to a fully operational sportsbook. Prominently, a full-scale replica of the Tullis-Toledano Manor is set to be integrated into the resort’s design. This blend of gaming, hospitality, and cultural homage is intended to offer visitors an exciting and immersive experience.

Next Steps in Development

Securing site approval from the MGC is merely the first milestone in a long journey towards building this casino. The Tullis Gardens team is now tasked with obtaining financing and demonstrating proof of funding to the MGC. Additionally, Schwartz and his partners will undergo thorough suitability checks before being cleared to apply for construction permits and finalize design approvals.

Nearby Casino Proposals

While the MGC has backed the Tullis Gardens site, it postponed proceedings regarding another nearby project, the Tivoli Casino, which has ambitious plans for a $1 billion development. This proposal includes 1,300 hotel rooms, a convention center, and a massive 100,000-square-foot casino featuring 2,000 slot machines and 75 table games. However, the Tivoli site currently lacks the necessary tidelands lease and faces litigation issues that have stalled its progress.

As the Tullis Gardens project shows promise of revitalizing Biloxi’s casino sector, the fate of the Tivoli project remains uncertain, contributing to the overall dynamic competition in the Mississippi gaming market.

Conclusion

The approval of the Tullis Gardens Hotel & Casino by the Mississippi Gaming Commission signals a new era for Biloxi’s gaming scene, promising to attract visitors and rejuvenate the local economy. With its rich homage to historical architecture and a comprehensive gaming experience, this development holds the potential to be a key player in the Gulf Coast’s casino market.