The Showboat Atlantic City is almost ready for summer. The Boardwalk hotel, formerly a New Orleans-themed casino resort, is in the final phase of a $50 million renovation project, according to management.
“The Showboat is the only true family-friendly, year-round resort in Atlantic City and these major investments demonstrate our ongoing commitment to elevate guests’ experiences,” said Bart Blatstein, CEO of Tower Investments Inc., in a statement.
According to the Press of Atlantic City, some 800 guest rooms and suites are being remodeled with a contemporary coastal look. New technology will enable guests to access their rooms via mobile devices. The lobby and common areas are also getting an overhaul in keeping with the beach theme.
In addition, Blatstein, a Philadelphia-based developer, will open the adjoining $100 million Island Waterpark on Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start of summer at the Jersey shore.
“The room and other property enhancements will ensure the stay experience aligns with our extraordinary entertainment offerings that we have developed in recent years,” he said.
Tower Investments acquired the Showboat in 2016, after its former casino and four others were forced to close due to competition from neighboring states, including Pennsylvania and New York.
“Open now for our seventh summer, we know how much our guests enjoy staying with us at Showboat and look forward to elevating that experience even more with these renovations,” said Blatstein. “At Tower, we’ve always believed in Atlantic City, and can’t wait to open our waterpark.”
Blatstein has also put in a bid to redevelop Bader Field, the historic former airport located at the entrance to the city. According to the Philly Voice, he has proposed a plan that would develop a $3 billion “Venice-like” rental community with 10,000 housing units set amid canals, retail outlets, offices and parks.
But Blatstein is not the only airport bidder: a $2.7 billion plan from developer DEEM Enterprises, which has the support of Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, would include a race course and retail areas built around a 2,000-unit housing development.
