Bettendorf riverboat casino admissions, revenues continue to decline in fiscal 2012

Bettendorf's riverboat casino admissions fell to 1.1 million visitors in fiscal 2012, half the number of people the gambling boat drew 12 years ago.

Likewise, gross revenues at the Isle casino fell nearly 4 percent in fiscal 2012, off nearly $30 million from its peak revenue in 2004.

The admission and revenue declines translate in fewer dollars for state and city treasuries, as well as non-profit charitable groups which get a percentage of gambling revenue.

Thanks to the opening of another casino, the state's 15th, adjusted gross revenues statewide exceeded $1 billion for the first time.

The Isle of Capri's other Quad Cities gambling boat, the Rhythm City in Davenport, reported an 8 percent increase in admissions to 967,509 and a 2.4 percent increase in gross revenue to $50.5 million for the fiscal year.

The city of Davenport is seeking a new license-holder for the casino there claiming the Isle has failed to invest in its facility to remain competitive in the local gambling market.

The gap between admissions at the Rhythm City and Isle of Capri in Bettendorf have narrowed in recent years as the Davenport boat admissions have remained flat and the Isle boat have steadily declined.

Both Iowa riverboat casinos have been hurt by the opening of the new Jumer's Casino and Hotel in Rock Island, IL.

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