Ellis Island Casino in Las Vegas is undergoing a $35 million expansion while also suing the Formula One Group and Clark County over damages caused by the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix. The family-owned property announced plans for a major upgrade, including expansions to the gaming floor, a new rooftop event space, a center bar, and renovations to the existing Village Pub & Café and karaoke lounge. The upgrade will also include over 250 new slot machines and a new pit area on the casino floor.
The property, which has been dubbed “the best kept secret in Las Vegas since 1968,” has undergone multiple upgrades over the years but none as extensive as the current project. Las Vegas-based firms Bentar Construction and Steelman Partners are responsible for the design and construction of the Ellis Island property. Vice President of Operations Anamarie Ellis expressed excitement about expanding the casino’s offerings and bringing in new slot machines.
Ellis Island Vice President of Development, Christina Ellis, also shared her enthusiasm for the $35 million upgrade project, stating that the family-run business was eager to expand while staying true to its roots. The property is located near the F1 Paddock Building on Koval Lane, where a temporary bridge was built for the 2023 Vegas Grand Prix. Ellis Island filed a lawsuit against F1 and Clark County seeking damages for financial losses and expenses incurred during the construction project.
The lawsuit claims that Ellis Island lost millions of dollars in 2023 due to the impact on customer and employee access to the property before and during the event. The property is hoping for a legal victory to offset the costs of its expansion project. Multiple Las Vegas businesses, including Battista’s Hole in the Wall restaurant and Stage Door Casino, have also filed lawsuits against F1 over financial losses caused by the 2023 race.
The 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend is scheduled to take place from November 21-23. Despite the legal battles, Ellis Island is moving forward with its expansion plans and looking forward to bringing a new aesthetic to its casino floor. The property remains committed to providing a unique and enjoyable experience for its guests while continuing to grow and evolve in the ever-changing landscape of Las Vegas entertainment.