Biloxi City Council Approves Rezoning for Black Marlin Casino at Veterans Avenue
Biloxi City Council rezoned seven parcels for the Black Marlin Casino, advancing RW Development's project ahead of a 2026 state approval deadline.Summary
On October 6, the Biloxi City Council approved a rezoning of seven parcels owned by RW Development at the corner of Beach Boulevard and Veterans Avenue, clearing a local hurdle for the proposed Black Marlin Casino. The resolution designates the land as waterfront and establishes a Gaming Establishment Overlay District, while also permitting the removal of 28 protected trees, including 25 live oaks and three magnolias, despite objections from more than two dozen residents. Council members cited an arborist's assessment that most trees were in poor condition.
The project now moves to the Mississippi Gaming Commission for review of the updated proposal and background checks on principals. The commission granted site approval in December 2023 after RW Development committed to building a $3 million pier at Veterans Boulevard, satisfying the requirement for gaming within 800 feet of the mean high-water line of the Mississippi Sound. However, that approval expires at 12:01 a.m. on December 22, 2026; without a gaming license or extension, RW Development would have to restart the process with the Mississippi Department of Transportation and the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.
The Black Marlin Casino plans include a 43,800-square-foot casino, a 300-room hotel, restaurant and fine dining outlets, and 668 parking spaces. RW Development has partnered with Encompass, a Kentucky-based firm with experience working with Caesars Entertainment, Churchill Downs, and Jack Entertainment. The city council action marks the latest milestone for a development first proposed more than 15 years ago.
(Source：Sccg Management)