City of Dubuque and Diamond Jo Groundbreaking Celebration Kicks Off America's River Phase II

Dubuque, Iowa -- The City of Dubuque and the Diamond Jo Casino broke ground today on the Diamond Jo's new casino and entertainment complex and the City's parking facility. Representing more than $100 million in new construction, the new casino and parking facility are the first two projects of America's River Project, Phase II. The new casino, state-of- the-art bowling center, dining and entertainment facility and phase one of the parking facility will be complete in fall 2008.

"The City is proud to be a part of the continued redevelopment of Dubuque's riverfront," said Dubuque Mayor Roy D. Buol. "The Diamond Jo expansion and the new public parking facility are great examples of the partnerships that are making Dubuque a better place to live, work, and play. These two projects compliment each other and are sure to spur additional development in the Port and beyond."

About 200 community leaders, Diamond Jo Team Members and invited guestsparticipated in possibly the largest groundbreaking event ever hosted in Dubuque. "The people in this community lead us to begin our journey here. We are proud to now return the support and appreciations we have received form this community by making a significant reinvestment in Dubuque. On what we believe will enhance this area as not only one of the best places to visit in the country but the best place to live and raise a family as well." Brent Stevens, C.E.O. Peninsula Gaming said, "So to our customers, team members and the entire tri-state community. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you."

Vision Iowa Board Chairperson Andrew Anderson and Dubuque County Historical Society Board President Jeff Bertsch were also on hand for the celebration. The America's River Phase II grant application was recently approved by the Vision Iowa Board and awarded $8 million to the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium's portion of Phase II.In September 2006, Peninsula Gaming officials announced that the Diamond Jo would begin a major expansion, during which it would become a land-based casino. The $75 million project, set to open in the fall of 2008, will include 1,000 slot machines, 17 table games, and a poker room in a new 35,000 square-foot casino. Also included in the project are a 36-lane bowling and entertainment center, three restaurants and retail stores.

The Port of Dubuque Public Parking Facility is a City-owned, four-story parking structure which has been designed to accommodate 1,130 vehicles, meeting the anticipated parking needs of both the new Diamond Jo Casino and the neighboring Portside Mixed-Use Development Project and other activities at the Port of Dubuque.

The casino's expanded operation and the City of Dubuque's parking facility are part of the "America's River Project: Phase II", which will also involve a major expansion of the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. The museum will take over the Diamond Jo's existing Portside Building, as well as the riverboat.