The Pass Casino in downtown Henderson’s Water Street District has a new owner as ECL Water Street, the operator of the Emerald Island and Rainbow Club casinos, acquired it from DeSimone Gaming.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Nevada gaming regulators must approve the transaction.
“The Pass is a cornerstone of this community,” Tim Brooks, general manager of the Emerald Island and Rainbow Club casinos, said in a statement. “We are honored to welcome The Pass into the ECL family and look forward to building upon the strong foundation Joe (DeSimone) and his team have established.”
Following an expected Aug. 1 property closing, ECL Water Street will evaluate options to renovate the property and introduce new amenities, ensuring the venue’s evolution complements the ongoing revitalization of the Water Street District, according to a news release.
“From the day we acquired The Pass, our goal was to honor Henderson’s history while delivering an exceptional experience for our guests,” DeSimone said in a statement. “ECL Gaming has demonstrated a strong commitment to our community, and I am confident they will continue to invest in the success of The Pass for years to come.”
After the sale of the casino is completed, DeSimone Cos. will continue to own and operate the nearby Atwell Suites on Water Street. DeSimone’s company also owns the Railroad Pass Casino between Henderson and Boulder City.
The Pass Casino opened as the Wheel Casino in February 1961, but closed a year later, reopening as the Eldorado Casino. In 1965, owners acquired the next-door Royal Club, doubling the Eldorado’s size.
Boyd Gaming acquired the property in 1993, using it as a training ground for young executives because of its small size.
When casinos closed during the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, Boyd kept the property closed through December 2020, selling it to DeSimone. The Eldorado reopened as The Pass in April 2021. In March 2022, DeSimone announced plans to build the 90-room Atwell Suites hotel in the casino’s parking lot.
The property currently has a 17,756-square-foot casino with around 350 slot machines, six table games and a Circa Sports-operated race and sportsbook.
Food outlets Ristorante Italiano and Emilia’s Cafe operate within the property.
Contact Richard N. Velotta at rvelotta@reviewjournal.com or 702-477-3893. Follow @RickVelotta on X.
