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First four fields break ground as first tournament weekend and Summer activations approach

RENO, Nev. (March 23, 2026)—Jacobs Entertainment (JEI) announced today its minor conditional use permit (MUP) has been approved for the first four flat fields that will anchor the Downtown Reno Amateur Sports Association (DRASA) youth sports initiative in downtown Reno.

The approval marks a significant milestone in JEI’s ongoing investment in youth sports and the continued revitalization of downtown Reno through J Resort’s Reno Neon Line.

Construction has commenced, with the first youth soccer tournament weekend officially scheduled for June 6-7, 2026.

“This will be a very strong summer season for downtown Reno,” said Richard Jacobs, assistant director of sales and special events at J Resort. “We’re anticipating a significant jump in hotel demand during major events, including this year’s U.S. Bowling Open. Youth sports weekends alone are expected to drive substantial overnight visitation and economic activity for downtown Reno’s businesses. Between sports, concerts, public art, and new amenities, it’s exciting to see downtown continue to grow as a vibrant place to live, work, and play.”

The first four multi-use flat fields are part of DRASA’s long-term plan to develop up to 12 fields over the next six years to accommodate 7-on-7, 9-on-9 and 11-on-11 youth play. The sports fields are designed to host both local and traveling tournaments, drawing teams from Reno and out-of-market communities, with expectations for continued growth in the years ahead.

The youth sports fields will debut alongside several major summer initiatives at J Resort and throughout Reno’s Neon Line District, including:

• A May opening of J Resort’s expanded front entrance
• The installation of several sculptures commissioned specifically for Reno by two world-renowned sculptors
• An expanded outdoor concert series, kicking off with J Resort’s Festival Grounds’ second annual Drifters Music Festival May 23-24

Preparations for the season also include phase one of a new family-focused “Fun Zone,” which will complement the four fields and provide additional activities for visiting families.

With many potential youth sports weekends annually, JEI expects the initiative to contribute meaningfully to Reno’s tourism economy while expanding recreational opportunities for Northern Nevada families.

About Jacobs Entertainment, Inc.

Led by Chief Executive Officer Jeff Jacobs, Jacobs Entertainment, Inc. (JEI) is a privately held company that develops, owns, and operates gaming, hospitality, and entertainment facilities across the United States. JEI is in the midst of an ambitious revitalization project in downtown Reno, Nevada, with a significant investment of hundreds of millions of dollars into Reno’s Neon Line. This arts-focused entertainment district blends gaming, hospitality, entertainment, food and beverage, and both affordable and market-rate housing. JEI continues to build one of the West Coast’s preeminent live, work, and play areas of urban renewal.

JEI’s diverse portfolio includes casinos, hotels, mixed-use developments, and entertainment venues in Colorado, Louisiana, Nevada, and Ohio. In addition to the J Resort, notable properties include The Lodge Casino and The Gilpin Casino in Black Hawk, Colorado; Gold Dust West Casinos in Nevada; Cash Magic truck stop casinos in Louisiana; and the Nautica Waterfront District in Cleveland, Ohio. JEI is committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences through strategic investments, community partnerships, and a dedication to ethical leadership and operational excellence.

B-Roll of construction

Media Contact:
Kathryn Stratz, The Abbi Agency
kathryn@theabbiagency.com