Biloxi Approves Black Marlin Casino Almost Three Years After State Green Light
The casino was originally approved by the Mississippi Gaming Commission in 2023, giving the development company three years to present final plans
The Biloxi City Council has approved rezoning for the Black Marlin Casino, giving RW Development the local green light to move its waterfront project forward after a closely watched vote on October 6.
Per WLOX, The decision passed 5-1 and opens the door for work at 1820 Beach Boulevard, although the development still needs state licensing before any gaming operation can begin.
Tree Fight Still Shadows the Project
The vote also authorised the removal of 28 protected trees, including 25 live oaks and three magnolias, a point that drew sharp pushback from residents who argued the mature canopy should be preserved.
WLOX reported that council members imposed a 10-day waiting period before construction can begin in order to allow time for tree removal. It will also require the developer to replace the loss with 209 new trees, a payment into the city tree fund or a combination of both.
The casino, once completed, will stand as a 119,000 square foot property.
State Clock Keeps Ticking
According to local reporting, the Biloxi Planning Commission had already unanimously backed the master plan, zoning change and tree removal request on September 3 after reviewing an arborist’s assessment that found most of the trees in poor or fair condition.
The casino plans were originally approved by the Mississippi Gaming Commission in December 2023. The commission’s okay came after four attempts over 16 years by the developer to gain approval for the casino at Veterans Avenue and Highway 90.
RW Developments had three years to submit final plans to the commission. Even with city approval, the Mississippi Gaming Commission’s site approval expires on December 22, 2026 unless the licensing process is completed or extended.
