Iowa Casinos Announce Sportsbook Renovation Plans

• Iowa sports betting became legal after Governor Reynold signed SF 617
• After regulations are approved, the industry is likely to launch in late August.
• Sports betting revenue will be used for infrastructure updates as well as youth educational programs.

DAVENPORT, Iowa – After the signature of Governor Kim Reynolds appeared on the bill legalizing sports betting in Iowa, casinos have begun preparing for the industry to launch.

Last week, news dropped that the Diamond Jo Casino was constructing a sports betting lounge that will likely be ready by the start of the NFL season.

Now, the focus turns to Rhythm City Casino. This three-year-old casino knew sports betting wouldn’t be held out of Iowa forever and already has a planned space for their Iowa sports betting lounge.

The Draft Day Sports Lounge is located near the middle of the facility, just off to the side of the Rhythm Room, in between the main casino floor and Robert’s Buffet.

Renovation ideas have yet to be released to the public; however, casino general manager, Mo Hyder, says the plans will be submitted to the state sooner than later.

“We’re very excited for the sports betting opportunity, as it provides another option for our customers, energizes our resorts, and gives us another way to really showcase the beautiful properties we have,” Hyder said.

Before the Rhythm City Casino Resort can offer betting lines to its customers, the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission must approve regulations, having them subject to a public hearing as well.

“It’s moving very quickly, and a lot of people are excited,” said Brian Ohorilko, the commission’s director of gaming. “But there’s a difference between hurrying and cutting corners. We’ll make sure we present the best, complete product.”

As well as being approved for their lounge, Rhythm Casino will also have to get approval from the commission to actually have a legal sports betting license, which costs $45,000. These licensing fees will be used to cover the operating costs of the industry.

The 6.75% tax on the books’ revenue will be used for infrastructure updates, reducing the state’s debt, and funding educational youth programs.

Elsewhere around the state, other venues are starting to prepare to the launch as well.

“Some are taking small steps, including putting up additional televisions or preparing wagering terminals. And we’re seeing significant changes to where there’s up to $1 million being invested at some casinos,” said Ohorilko.

Catfish Bend Casino announced plans to create a 5,000-square-foot lounge in their casino. The Burlington casino has also announced that their online sportsbook supplier will be PointsBet.

As for the other 16 casinos in the state, Iowa Gaming Association President, Wes Ehrecke knows they will be next to have their lounges approved.

“I’m pretty confident in saying all our casinos have an interest in wanting to offer this to their patrons.”

News tags: Catfish Bend Casino | Diamond Jo Casino | Iowa | Rhythm City Casino