Allen said Hard Rock would not have been interested in coming to Atlantic City without the ability to start slowly and then expand over several years. The commission accepted Hard Rock into its pilot program for so-called boutique casinos designed to jump-start new construction in the struggling resort, where casino revenues have been tumbling for five straight years.
Hard Rock plans to make more use of the beach than any casino ever has in Atlantic City: A pool, a café for afternoon barbeques and an outdoor entertainment area that could host concerts are part of the proposal.