By: Jessica Cihacek
jcihacek@kcautv.com
They're considered a destination in a lot of places. Particularly, big cities.
So when the Missouri River Historical Development began looking for potential operators for a future land–based casino, they knew "Hard Rock" in the title, would do the same for Sioux City.
Make it a destination.
MRHD President, Mark Monson, says, "When you cross the Floyd River, you can see the tower of the Battery Building and if there is a 20 foot guitar on top of that, you talk about a landmark that will be incredible!"
That was an easy decision, Monson says. But what's in it for Sioux City Entertainment? The potential operators of Hard Rock Sioux City?
That was easy for them, too, they say.
For one, Sioux City already has the strong, urban music culture they're looking for.
Bill Warner, President of Sioux City Entertainment Inc., says, "And looking at the potential of a brand like Hard Rock coming into Sioux City, we felt the marriage of the two was just a perfect marriage for an entertainment destination and casino, along with the music heritage of Sioux City combined to create a great package."
And so far, that package would include a large casino, three restaurants, an outdoor beer garden and a gift shop all at a price tag of $100 million.
It would also offer over 500 jobs.
While the city council has yet to endorse the project, and the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission have yet to approve it.
MRHD is feeling like this is a winning bet.
The proposal is due to the IRGC by November 1st. The Commission has until April 1st to approve it.
And if Hard Rock gets the green light, Sioux City Entertainment expects to begin building this Summer.
