The Manchester Planning Board is set to evaluate a new site plan on Thursday for an extensive Revo Casino expansion located on South Willow Street.
This new development aims to unify five parcels into one larger lot, resulting in a 73,240-square-foot charitable gaming venue that will feature two dining establishments, a bar, performance areas, gaming zones, and a versatile event venue, as reported by the New Hampshire Union Leader.
This proposal signifies the latest stage in a redevelopment initiative that received all the required approvals by late 2024, encompassing variances, conditional use permits, and authorization from the Board of Mayor and Aldermen.
Granite State Poker Alliance and Dick Anagnost have acquired additional neighboring lands to facilitate a modified site configuration that includes a relocated gaming center and enhanced parking facilities.
The redevelopment encompasses properties at 1279 South Willow Street, which previously housed a bingo hall and movie theater; 55 John E. Devine Drive, the former EVEN Hotel; 115 John E. Devine Drive, previously home to Manchester Harley-Davidson; 970 Gold Street, once the Taylor Rental site; and 1050 Gold Street, now occupied by Enterprise Car Sales and Rentals.
The construction process will unfold in three phases. The demolition of the former EVEN Hotel at 55 John E. Devine Drive will commence first, followed by the dismantling of the previous Manchester Harley-Davidson structure, parts of the current casino parking lot, and the Enterprise Car Sales/Rentals property to pave the way for the new facility and parking spaces.
Once the new establishment is finished, casino activities will transition from the current site at 1279 S. Willow St. Subsequently, the existing building will be demolished to clear space for additional parking, road enhancements, drainage systems, utilities, landscaping, and other necessary features.
“The applicant expresses gratitude to the Board in advance for its flexibility in allowing this phased strategy, which is designed to reduce business disruptions during redevelopment,” the application claims.
The new structure will primarily occupy the area currently taken up by the former Harley-Davidson dealership and surrounding parking lots.
The plan accommodates 1,086 parking spaces, inclusive of 22 ADA-compliant ones. While city regulations stipulate a requirement of 398 parking spaces, planners indicate that peak demand might necessitate the nearly full supply of parking.
Proposed off-site enhancements include adding a left-turn lane on John E. Devine Drive and restructuring the intersection of South Willow Street, South Porter Street, and the site’s entrance to facilitate better traffic flow.
The Planning Board is scheduled to assess the application during its Thursday meeting.