Under Argent's ownership, the casino was enlarged and a sportsbook was added during 1975. Argent also sought approval to build a 19-story hotel tower. The first phase of a $70 million expansion was finished in July 1976. The casino, at , was the largest in the world according to Glick. Among the new features was an expanded sportsbook. Glick also still planned to add additional hotel rooms, which would be built behind the Stardust. Portions of the existing resort would have to be demolished to accommodate the proposed hotel expansion.