Forward Momentum for Tivoli Project as Court Decides in Favor and Website Gets the Green Light
Tivoli Casino Project in Biloxi Faces Ongoing Legal Challenges
The Tivoli casino project in Biloxi, Mississippi, has faced nearly two decades of delays due to legal hurdles, with the most recent challenge coming from Secretary of State Michael Watson's legal challenge in December 2024 [1][2][3].
Although the site at the former Tivoli Hotel was finally approved on July 18, 2025, the project's progress has been slow due to the complex interplay of state regulatory approval and legal disputes over land use.
In addition to the Tivoli project, the Tullis Gardens Casino, another project in the area, also received site approval in December 2024 [4]. However, like Tivoli, Tullis Gardens is also facing legal challenges over tidelands and permitting [1].
Luke Lenzi, who leads Tullis Gardens, predicts that the legal battles could drag out for years, potentially taking at least three years [1]. He urges the city and all parties to come together and work together for the betterment of One Coast.
The Mississippi Supreme Court made a decision in a similar case (RW Development) that the City of Biloxi had the legal authority to enter a lease [1]. The Tullis Gardens Casino would feature a 300-room hotel and a casino hosting 909 slots and 35 table games.
These ongoing legal challenges highlight the complexities that can arise in the development of large-scale projects, and underscore the importance of collaboration and resolution to move forward with significant development on the Coast [1].
References:
[1] "Tivoli Casino Project in Biloxi Faces Legal Challenges." Gulf Coast News, 18 July 2025. Web. 01 Aug 2025.
[2] "Tullis Gardens Casino Faces Legal Challenges." Gulf Coast News, 18 Dec 2024. Web. 01 Aug 2025.
[3] "Watson Challenges Tivoli Casino Site Approval." Gulf Coast News, 18 Dec 2024. Web. 01 Aug 2025.
[4] "Tullis Gardens Casino Receives Site Approval." Gulf Coast News, 18 Dec 2024. Web. 01 Aug 2025.
In contrast to the ongoing legal battles faced by the Tivoli casino project, the Tullis Gardens Casino also received site approval in December 2024, anticipating a 35-table casino and 909 slots, much like the variety of casino-games available in Las Vegas, a city renowned for its casino-and-gambling scene. However, like Tivoli, the Tullis Gardens Casino is also embroiled in legal disputes, with potentially lengthy delays ahead, as predicted by Luke Lenzi, the project's leader.
