Plan calls for Admiral casino boat to move north in November

Friday, Sept. 29, 2000 | 9:06 a.m.

It's expected to take about 45 minutes to tow the boat, which houses the President Casino, from its berth near the Eads Bridge on the Mississippi River to its new home, just north of the King Bridge on Laclede's Landing in downtown St. Louis.

However, two to four days will be needed for the entire operation, which also involves disconnecting utility lines, docking ramps and mooring wires and anchors, officials for President Casinos said Thursday. Tentative plans call for the casino to open Nov. 17.

James Zweifel, the boat's general manager, said the moving date could change if water levels are too high. The move can take place only if the water is eight feet or less.

The project also includes construction of an almost-completed outdoor entrance pavilion and four protective cells in the Mississippi River. Overall, the project will cost $8 million.

President is paying $5 million, and the city is putting up the rest, using taxes and fees it gets from the Admiral. That includes $600,000 upfront and $600,000 annually over eight years to pay off a $2.4 million bank loan.

"It's part of the new St. Louis," Mayor Clarence Harmon said at a ceremony Thursday at the new plaza.

Harmon said it was the city's duty to promote the boat and help it succeed. The casino employs 900 people.

President and city officials hope that the shift will help the Admiral's bottom line and that of its parent company, which has been plagued by financial problems. They cite improved street access and parking and say being inside the entertainment district is better than the current berth just to the south.

There also are expected to be fewer flood-related shutdowns. The new spot is on higher ground and farther from the river's navigation channel.