Las Vegas developer Anthony Marnell III just dropped plans for a fresh hotel-casino right across the street from the M Resort, a spot he built over 15 years ago but sold off. This bold move sets up a head-to-head battle in Henderson, Nevada, with details hinting at big expansions and fierce rivalry. What’s driving this comeback, and how will it shake up the local scene?
The Bold Plan Unveiled
Anthony Marnell III, a key figure in Las Vegas gaming, has filed site plans for a new hotel-casino in Henderson. The project targets 35 acres at the northeast corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and St. Rose Parkway. It’s a direct shot at competing with the M Resort, which Marnell developed in 2009 before selling it.
This new resort could cost over $250 million, starting with 200 rooms and growing to 600 in phases. Early filings show a casino floor, food hall, entertainment lounge, meeting spaces, and a pool deck. Marnell told reporters the idea stems from his deep roots in the area.
He sees untapped potential in southern Nevada’s growth. Henderson has boomed with new homes and businesses, drawing more visitors each year.
Plans like this often spark excitement, but they also raise questions about market saturation.
Direct Competition with a Personal Twist
Marnell isn’t shy about the rivalry. He called the project “absolutely in direct competition” with the M Resort during a recent phone interview. That’s striking since he founded the M, naming it after his family.
The M Resort opened in 2009 as a luxury spot south of the Las Vegas Strip. Penn Entertainment now runs it and just announced a major upgrade. Their $206 million second hotel tower opens on December 1, 2025, doubling rooms to 765.
Marnell’s new spot sits right across the street, creating a unique showdown. Imagine building a rival business next to your old creation. It’s personal and strategic.
This could split the customer base, with locals and tourists choosing between familiar luxury and fresh appeal.
Experts say such competition boosts innovation. Casinos might roll out better deals or unique features to win crowds.
Project Details and Timeline
Diving into the nuts and bolts, the development rolls out in stages. Phase one kicks off with 200 rooms, a solid casino, and key amenities. Later phases add 400 more rooms, ramping up capacity.
Marnell estimates three to five years before groundbreaking. That timeline fits with city approvals and economic checks. Henderson officials have shown interest, especially after past land deals with the Marnell family.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s planned:
- Casino space for slots, tables, and high-stakes play
- Food hall with diverse dining options
- Entertainment lounge for live shows
- Meeting areas for events and conferences
- Outdoor pool deck for relaxation
Costs could top $250 million, based on similar projects. Funding likely comes from private investors, given Marnell’s track record.
Delays aren’t uncommon in Vegas builds. Market shifts or regulations could push things back.
Still, Marnell sounds confident. He points to Henderson’s population growth, up 5% in recent years per U.S. Census data from 2023, as a big driver.
One phase at a time keeps risks low. It lets the team test the waters before full commitment.
Impact on Henderson’s Gaming Landscape
This project could reshape Henderson’s economy. The city, part of the Las Vegas metro, already hosts spots like the M Resort. A new casino means more jobs, from construction to operations.
Local leaders welcome the boost. Tourism in southern Nevada hit record highs in 2024, with over 40 million visitors according to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority’s annual report. More hotels could capture that wave.
But there’s a flip side. Increased competition might strain smaller businesses. The M Resort’s expansion, adding rooms and a new restaurant by chef Emeril Lagasse, shows they’re gearing up for battle.
Rivals like this often lead to better experiences for guests, with promotions and upgrades keeping things fresh. For residents, it means more entertainment options close to home.
Analysts predict a ripple effect. Property values around the site could rise, drawing more development.
Henderson’s gaming scene has evolved since 2020, when early talks of this project surfaced. Now, with plans firming up, it’s a sign of recovery post-pandemic.
Challenges remain, like water shortages in Nevada. Builders must plan sustainably, as state reports from 2024 highlight conservation needs.
Overall, this adds to Las Vegas’s allure as a hub of reinvention.
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