Truckee Gaming is on track to shutter the Poker Palace Casino in North Las Vegas as part of its acquisition and remodeling of the property before reopening in the first or second quarter of 2026.
The Nevada Gaming Control Board Wednesday recommended a limited license for the company, to be considered by the Nevada Gaming Commission. It paves the way for the acquisition by Reno-based Truckee Gaming, which operates 10 casinos in Nevada, including Club Fortune in Henderson.
Truckee attorney Michael Alanso said they tried to expedite the hearing process to consummate the sale on Oct. 1, temporarily close the property, and undertake an extensive remodel to open as soon as possible.
“Poker Palace is the type of opportunity (Truckee Gaming) is strategically looking for – a small locals casino. This transaction was signed in the middle of May and provides for Truckee Gaming to buy all of Poker Palace’s assets, including all of the gaming, excess land, and a building on the excess land that’s leased to the state of Nevada.”
The Poker Palace, which opened in 1974 and has been under the same ownership for 50 years, will undergo a renovation: a new exterior, interior remodel, and new walls, floor coverings, and ceilings. The main entrance will be remodeled to make it more adjacent to the main parking area. Walls will be opened to add more casino space. Restrooms will be remodeled and back-of-house space will be created for offices. The kitchen will be expanded for a quick-serve restaurant, which will add 32 seats. The project will be funded with cash flow from operations.
Once the remodel is complete, Alonso said they will return to the Board to complete the licensing process.
Board Chair Mike Dreitzer asked about the vision for the property that has struggled throughout the years.
Pete McHugh, COO at Truckee Gaming, said the plan for the property, which has been undercapitalized for some time, is “to bring it into the light, with some refreshed slots, systems, and refreshed technology.” He said better food offerings could also reposition the property within the surrounding community.
“We can put ourselves in position to draw more clientele with a better strategy and capital investment,” McHugh said.
The non-salaried employees, with the exception of some security, will lose their jobs. A few managers will go to Truckee’s Henderson property, then return to Poker Palace when it reopens.
The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported that 126 employees will lose their jobs.
