Construction Expected to Start Soon on New Natchez Casino


NATCHEZ, Miss., Jan. 7, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Construction is expected to start in the first quarter of 2008 on Natchez's newest casino.

"Our project is a land-based gaming facility with two great restaurants and a first class entertainment venue that will have both onsite covered parking, and covered access to the building," says Ted Doody, the president of Natchez Enterprises, the partnership created to develop the project. "We intend to create a gaming, entertainment, and dining experience for our guests that is unrivaled anywhere along the Mississippi," he added. "We have financing in place, and we're ready to start work."

Roughly half of the two-story building, located on Roth Hill Road, will be devoted to a Las Vegas-style casino, filled with the latest gaming technology. Of the two restaurants -- one will feature fine dining for 60, and the other will have a 200-seat buffet. Both restaurants will have indoor and outdoor seating that bring the vistas of the Mississippi into the dining experience. The entrance of the facility will be covered by a porte cochere that will give guests the option of using valet parking.

The development will also feature a glass-enclosed bar and cocktail lounge, as well as an expansive outdoor dining and entertainment area with patios and balconies overlooking the river and trellis bridge.

As previously announced, two-thirds of the Roth Hill site will become a park that's open to the public. It will include interactive water features, formal gardens, a walkway along the river and a lawn for concerts, picnics, weddings and other events. The park will also be integrated into the Natchez Trails project.

"The entire project was designed with the goal of connecting Natchez to the river," Doody added. "We've worked hard to preserve the flavor of the community, and give people access to one of its greatest resources."

Natchez Enterprises signed an option agreement with the city in July, and hopes to complete the permitting process in time for construction to start in the first quarter of the new year. As part of the agreement, the partnership will donate $1 million to the city, as well as $225,000 per year to a community development fund.

The Historic Natchez Foundation has endorsed the design.

"The development is revolutionary in terms of how developers typically approach the design of casinos in historic communities," said Ron Miller, executive director of the Historic Natchez Foundation. "It reflects and compliments the traditional architecture and natural beauty of the historic riverfront, but in an exciting and non-traditional way. Natchez is a special place and Natchez Enterprises has demonstrated its commitment to preserving and enhancing the special character of the city."



            

Contact Data