Gaming board approves Bally's purchase of Sam's Town

SHREVEPORT, La. – The Louisiana Gaming Control Board on Thursday approved Bally’s purchase of Sam’s Town Casino & Hotel.

The acquisition also comes with a new name as the casino will be known as Bally’s Shreveport North.

Sam’s Town was owned by Boyd Gaming Corporation. It’s located next to the current Bally’s Shreveport Casino & Hotel on the Red River.

In a statement on Friday, Bally’s Corporation extended its thanks to the state gaming board and the Louisiana State Police team for their “thoughtful review of this transaction.”

“We also want to thank Boyd Gaming for its partnership and cooperation throughout this process. We look forward to working closely with all regulatory stakeholders to ensure a seamless closing and transition for team members, guests, and the local community,” according to the statement.

The transaction is the fist time two neighboring riverboat gaming properties in the same market fall under a single ownership.

The now-former Sam’s Town property includes 29,000 square feet of casino space, 750 slot machines and 14 game tables. The property also has a 514-room hotel tower with restaurants and meeting space.

There will be a six-month transition period for the takeover to be completed with branding, signage and logos.