The Primm family in Nevada announced on Monday a partnership agreement with Las Vegas-based Terrible’s to operate hotel-casino properties in Primm, preventing an imminent closure scheduled for July 4. The deal saves 344 jobs at Primm Valley Resort & Casino, the last operating casino hotel in the complex. Cory Clemetson, grandson of Primm’s founder and president of Primm South Real Estate Company, confirmed the agreement reached at the eleventh hour. The partnership brings hope to a destination that has faced declining operations since December 2024.
Tim Herbst, president of Terrible’s, stated the partnership reflects commitment to preserving Primm’s legacy while creating opportunities for growth, investment and tourism. The executive expressed confidence that the destination’s best days remain ahead. The Herbst family operates businesses spanning gaming, convenience retail, fuel, hospitality and travel services across the region.
Previous operator cited financial losses as reason for shutdown
Casino operator Affinity Interactive and principal owner Z Capital, a New York-based private equity firm, had announced the closure after leasing and operating Primm properties for nearly 15 years. Affinity Interactive CEO Scott Butera told the Gaming Control Board that Primm was “just not viable as a casino operation.” The executive cited ongoing financial losses and unsuccessful investment efforts as primary reasons.
The planned closure would have shuttered 624 hotel rooms and suites plus 46,000 square feet of entertainment space during summer. Clemetson criticized the timing of the July 4 closure date, stating his grandfather would have been outraged about letting go of more than 300 employees on a celebratory day in extreme heat. The family hopes the new operator will transition operations more responsibly for hardworking employees who have dedicated years to Primm.
Historic destination faces transformation after decades of decline
Since the 1970s, travelers driving to and from Las Vegas made Primm a booming destination seeking affordable Sin City-style experiences. The location served as a budget-friendly alternative for families and road travelers along Interstate 15. However, the complex began declining in December 2024 when Whiskey Pete’s became the first of three casinos to close.
Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino followed by limiting operations to special events in July 2025. The closures marked a dramatic shift for properties that once featured attractions including an operational roller coaster. Clemetson recalled childhood memories of stealing his grandfather’s toupee while the founder chased him laughing. The family created affordable experiences including $1 Coney Island-style hot dogs that became signature offerings.
New airport development fuels optimism for future growth
Clemetson expressed bullish sentiment about long-term prospects, citing the Southern Nevada Supplemental Airport under development near Primm. Previously known as Ivanpah Valley Airport, the facility will be located along Interstate 15 adjacent to the casino properties. Construction is expected to begin by 2029, with completion targeted for 2035.
The airport location positions Primm with advantages few Las Vegas casinos currently enjoy. The proximity could transform the destination into a major gateway for travelers entering Nevada. Future plans under the Terrible’s partnership may include:
- Property renovations and infrastructure improvements.
- Upgraded traveler amenities and enhanced food and beverage offerings.
- Strategic investments in gaming and entertainment facilities.
- Development aligned with airport construction timeline.
The transformation aims to restore Primm’s position as a viable stopover destination along the busy Las Vegas corridor. Industry observers note the airport development could reverse decades of declining traffic that contributed to recent closures.
Family legacy drives preservation efforts amid tourism challenges
Clemetson described his grandfather as a legendary figure in Nevada with substantial historical significance. The family wants to preserve that legacy while adapting to modern tourism realities. Visitors remain nostalgic about Primm because many remember stopping as children during family trips. The affordable entertainment options created lasting memories for generations of travelers.
The partnership comes as Las Vegas tourism faces broader challenges, with visitor numbers declining 7.5% in the sharpest annual drop outside the pandemic period. Primm’s struggles reflect wider pressures on gaming destinations competing for shrinking tourist dollars. The Terrible’s agreement provides stability during uncertain times for Nevada’s gaming industry.
Transition period focuses on employee retention and operational continuity
The new operator faces immediate challenges maintaining services while planning long-term improvements. Many employees have worked at Primm properties for years, living paycheck to paycheck in the small desert community. The family emphasized responsibility toward workers who dedicated careers to the destination.
Clemetson acknowledged uncertainty about specific future developments but committed to giving the best effort toward better days ahead. The partnership represents a second chance for properties that appeared destined for abandonment. Local officials and employees welcome the rescue deal that preserves jobs and maintains the historic gaming outpost along Interstate 15 between Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
