The Cripple Creek Historic Preservation Commission in Cripple Creek, Colorado is reviewing plans for a $30-$40 million casino-hotel submitted by Triple Crown Casinos. It’s the second major casino-hotel project proposed in the historic mining town within the last six months. Earlier, Full House Resorts submitted plans for a $70 million expansion at Bronco Billy’s.
Triple Crown’s proposal calls for a 150,000 square foot expansion, a 5-story hotel with 150 rooms, an upscale rooftop restaurant, ballroom, convention and meeting facilities, fitness center, coffee shop, lounge and possibly workforce housing. The new hotel would be built adjacent to the Brass Ass and Midnight Rose casinos; a pedestrian bridge above the street would connect the various properties.
Cripple Creek Planning and Community Development Director Bill Gray said, “The architectural design seems to be compatible with the historic character. It is a good design. They seem to be in compliance with the old classic building forms. We haven’t really heard that many concerns about the project.” He added the Triple Crown proposal would not require any variances, unlike the Bronco Billy’s expansion project.
Triple Crown announced its plans in late November. Chief Executive Officer Larry Hill said, “We are very excited to announce this bold expansion designed to offer an exceptional hospitality experience and differentiate us from our competitors while also retaining our unique historic legacy.” He said if the project is okayed, construction would start this year and the hotel would open in 2020.
Bronco Billy’s project includes a 6-story, 200-room hotel, slated to open in 2020. Gray said Full House still is securing financing. The first stage of the expansion would include an indoor parking garage.
“All the major players in town are proposing new hotels,” Gray said. Based on current and future expectations, more than $150 million in total new development, including an additional 500 hotel rooms, is forecast. In addition to Bronco Billy’s and Triple Crown, Gray said new hotel bids are expected from the owners of the Wildwood and Century casinos.
