Red Rock Resorts, also known as Station Casinos, hinted at the possibility of opening a new casino in Las Vegas late last year.
This was unexpected for two reasons. Firstly, Durango Station’s original plan of taking off more than ten years ago never materialized. Secondly, four of its casinos – Texas Station, Fiesta Henderson, Fiesta Rancho, and Palms – remained closed since their shutdown due to the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020.
Since the earnings call, Station Casinos has disposed of Palms. The remaining three casinos are still shut with no reopening plans. After offloading the almost-strip financial drain, Palms, Station Casinos revisited the concept of constructing another local casino.
Last week, Clark County approved the company’s plan to construct a new casino and hotel on its property near I-215 and Durango Drive in the fast-growing southwest area of Las Vegas. It seems that Station Casinos will proceed with this project, unlike the initial Durango area casino plan.
Station Casinos moving ahead with new casino plans
Bob Finch, the Chief Operating Officer of Station Casinos, stated in a blog post for the new property:
We express our gratitude to the Clark County Commission for backing the Durango project. As a trusted local casino and entertainment hub in various neighborhoods across the valley for more than four decades, we are thrilled to unveil our plans for the future of Station Casinos properties to the Southwest residents.
The construction of the new Durango Resort by Station Casinos will commence in the first quarter of 2022. The construction is expected to last between 18 and 24 months. As previously mentioned, the property might be ready for opening by the close of 2025.
The announcement for the target opening date should be made soon.
What to expect at Durango Resort
Although the name has transitioned from Durango Station to Durango Resort, the concept for the property remains unchanged. Durango Resort will continue to be a smaller, locals-oriented casino hotel targeting customers in the local area.
The gaming area should ideally occupy approximately 83,000 square feet, comprising slot machines, table games, a cutting-edge sportsbook, and any new games on offer. While this is clearly not a small space, it’s also not particularly expansive. To put it in perspective, Palace Station’s gaming floor spans slightly above 120,000 square feet.
Durango Resort plans to open a small hotel tower with slightly more than 200 rooms. The company indicated last year that it is contemplating a second hotel tower with 500 rooms. However, this is a long-term consideration and not included in the initial opening plan.
Similar to other properties by Station Casinos, Durango Resort will feature a resort pool area with private cabanas and an event lawn. The latter is a perfect venue for hosting concerts as well as food and beverage festivals.
Station Casinos is in the process of preparing four comprehensive food and beverage facilities. Additionally, Durango Resort will include a food hall showcasing a selection of popular local fast-casual restaurants and food establishments.
The new plan for Durango Resort lacks a proposed shopping district. The company had earlier discussed collaboration with a retail developer to establish a shopping area named “The District” at Green Valley Ranch, another Station Casino property. This plan could still be under development.
Station Casinos moving forward
Station Casinos is embarking on a new path, having sold Palms, a casino oriented more towards tourists. As part of its new strategy, the company is keeping Texas Station, Fiesta Henderson, and Fiesta Rancho closed, choosing instead to concentrate on its most profitable Las Vegas casinos.
The construction of the new Durango Resort is underway in the rapidly expanding southwest region of Las Vegas, intended for local residents. Station Casinos owns over 300 acres of land in various parts of Las Vegas, which can be used for casino construction or sold to generate funds if required.
- 105 acres located near Tropicana Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard.
- 58 acres located at the intersection of Flamingo Road and Town Center Drive.
- Las Vegas Boulevard and Cactus Avenue: 57 acres
Anyone looking to construct a new casino may find each of these land masses appealing. The land situated on Tropicana is in proximity to Allegiant Stadium, making it suitable for a variety of facilities including a casino, a hotel, a retail complex, parking for Raiders home games, among others.
Station Casinos representatives have previously stated in earnings calls that the majority of their business is generated from guests residing within three miles of a property. Their decision to proceed with the Durango Resort indicates an enhanced focus on their primary demographic – local Las Vegas customers.
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