Elite Casino Resorts on Thursday announced the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission has approved the company’s acquisition of Catfish Bend Casino and FunCity Resort in Burlington, Iowa. The transaction is expected to close on January 27.
Elite Casino Resorts confirmed it intends to rename Catfish Bend Casino as the Great River Casino Resort to honor Burlington’s Mississippi River heritage and the region’s role as a gathering place for recreation, entertainment, and community.
“This is a meaningful day for our family and our more than 1,200 Iowa unitholders,” Elite Casino Resorts CEO Dan Kehl said in a statement. “We are deeply grateful to the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission for their support and approval. Returning to Burlington feels like coming home, and the Great River Casino Resort name reflects the pride we have in this community and its strong river heritage.”
Elite also said all current team members will be invited to continue in their roles, with expanded access to companywide training, hospitality development, and opportunities across Elite’s multi-property network. The operator owns Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort and Rhythm City Casino Resort in Iowa; Grand Island Casino Resort and Lake Mac Casino Resort & Racetrack in Nebraska: and Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort in Illinois.
According to a news release, the acquisition “strengthens Elite Casino Resorts’ Eastern Iowa” presence by creating new opportunities for regional entertainment programming, tourism partnerships, and coordinated guest experiences in Iowa communities including Burlington, Riverside, and Davenport. Elite also reiterated a commitment to working closely with local organizations, events, and long-standing partners throughout Southeast Iowa.
“We appreciate the leadership and care that have guided this property,” Kehl said. “We look forward to collaborating with local stakeholders as we transition to the Great River Casino Resort and continue supporting the communities that make this region special.”