In Henderson, Nevada, Joe DeSimone, founder of First Federal Realty, has filed plans with the city to build a 6-story, 90-room Atwell Suites-branded hotel in the parking lot of the Pass Casino. Boyd Gaming sold the former Eldorado Casino to DeSimone in 2020.
Ground will be broken for the $20 million hotel this fall, DeSimone said. The project also will include a pool and a wine bar.
He said business has steadily improved at the Pass, 140 S. Water St., noting weekends are “very strong.” He pointed out the once-sleepy Water Street now features restaurants, breweries and more foot traffic. A recent addition to the area is Lifeguard Arena, the practice rink for the Silver Knights minor league hockey team. A 7-story mixed-use project across the street, the Watermark, is scheduled to open in the third quarter this year. Both are located near the Pass.
Strada Development Group Co-founder Tom Wucherer said the new construction downtown will attract even more people. “It helps everybody,” he said.
DeSimone commented, “Ten years ago, I don’t think anyone would consider putting a wine bar on Water Street. There’s a world of difference now.”
