Cedar Rapids Casino Opposition Coalition Says Iowa Has Enough Gambling Sites
A grassroots coalition called Iowans for Common Sense has emerged to oppose the proposed $275 million Cedar Rapids casino resort project, claiming local residents don't want expanded gambling in the state.
Purple sunset over farmland
The opposition comes as Cedar Rapids Development Group (CRDG) and Peninsula Pacific Entertainment (P2E) pursue Iowa's 20th casino license, following the July 1, 2024 expiration of the state's moratorium on new gaming licenses.
A recent poll by UpOne Insights found that 66% of likely Iowa voters oppose additional casinos, while only 30% support expansion. This opposition spans across political affiliations, despite general support for existing gambling operations.
The proposed Cedar Crossing Casino project includes:
- 700 slot machines
- 22 live dealer table games
- Sports betting facility
- 1,500-seat concert venue
- Multiple restaurants and bars
- STEM lab and cultural arts center
- 1,100+ parking spaces
Project supporters project:
- 500+ full-time jobs
- $80 million increase in annual gaming revenue
- Over 1 million annual visitors
The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) has commissioned two feasibility studies, with results expected in January. The project's charitable arm, Linn County Gaming Association, pledges 8% of gross gaming revenue to nonprofits, exceeding the state's 3% minimum requirement.
Critics, including the Washington County Riverboat Foundation, argue the new casino would harm existing operations and their associated nonprofits. P2E executive Jonathan Swain suggests the opposition campaign is funded by competing casino interests, particularly Elite Casino Resorts and Riverside Casino.
The Iowa Legislature is expected to consider reinstating the casino moratorium when it reconvenes for its 2025 session in January.
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