WBRZ - Baton Rouge

Construction is underway on the Pinnacle Casino complex in Baton Rouge. Pinnacle received three extensions for the work last year, mostly due to the slumping economy.

Truck loads of dirt are now being hauled to the site near the Gardere/River Road intersection. Louisiana Gaming Control Board officials say they noticed the activity when they monitored the site this morning. Construction fencing, heavy equipment and supervisor trailers can be seen from River Road.

Construction on the floating part of the complex is underway at Bollinger Shipyard. Gaming board officials say they're optimistic things will stay on track.

Gaming Board Chairman Dane Morgan says he will meet with Pinnacle this week for an update on the project. He says the entire board is scheduled to get an update at a meeting later this month. The casino is scheduled to open late next year.