RIVERSIDE — Elite Casino Resorts, LLC (“Elite Casino Resorts”) announced today that the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission has approved the company’s acquisition of Catfish Bend Casino and FunCity Resort in Burlington, Iowa. The transaction is expected to close on January 27, 2026.
With today’s approval, Elite Casino Resorts confirmed that next year, the company intends to rename Catfish Bend Casino as the Great River Casino Resort — a name honoring Burlington’s Mississippi River heritage and the region’s longstanding role as a gathering place for recreation, entertainment, and community.
“This is a meaningful day for our family and our more than 1,200 Iowa unitholders,” said Dan Kehl, Chief Executive Officer of Elite Casino Resorts. “We are deeply grateful to the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission for their support and approval. Returning to Burlington feels like coming home, and the Great River Casino Resort name reflects the pride we have in this community and its strong river heritage.”
Elite reaffirmed that all current team members will be invited to continue in their roles, with expanded access to companywide training, hospitality development, and opportunities across Elite’s multi-property network.
The acquisition strengthens Elite Casino Resorts’ Eastern Iowa presence, creating new opportunities for regional entertainment programming, tourism partnerships, and coordinated guest experiences across Burlington, Riverside, and Davenport. Elite also reiterated its commitment to working closely with local organizations, events, and long-standing partners throughout Southeast Iowa.
“We appreciate the leadership and care that have guided this property,” Kehl said. “We look forward to collaborating with local stakeholders as we transition to the Great River Casino Resort and continue supporting the communities that make this region special.”
Elite Casino Resorts is a leading regional gaming operator in the Midwest and a privately-owned U.S. company known for premier casino resort destinations, first-class guest service and amenities, great entertainment, and exceptional food.
With a strong commitment to community service, Elite was recognized as the Iowa Character Counts 2024 Partner of the Year. Elite Casino Resorts operates six casino resorts: Riverside Casino & Golf Resort in Riverside, IA; Rhythm City Casino Resort in Davenport, IA; Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort in Larchwood, IA; Grand Island Casino Resort in Grand Island, NE; and Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort in Carterville, IL and Lake Mac Casino Resort & Racetrack in Ogallala, NE.
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