Norfolk Casino Groundbreaking Has Virginia Closer to Adding New Casino
After years of planning and anticipation, Norfolk, Virginia, is finally set to break ground on a long-awaited casino project. This milestone comes nearly three years after Norfolk voters approved a referendum in 2020, allowing the city to construct a casino.
The Waterside recreational area of Norfolk, Virginia, at night. (Source: Visit Norfolk)
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for October 30. It marks a significant step forward in bringing the ambitious development to life.
The project, spearheaded by the Pamunkey Indian Tribe in collaboration with Boyd Gaming, has faced multiple delays since its initial approval. Despite these setbacks, developers have now established a pathway to meet the referendum's 2025 deadline for having gaming facilities operational on-site.
To achieve this goal, a development agreement has been introduced, which allows for the establishment of a temporary casino that can operate while the construction of the permanent structure is underway. This approach not only ensures that the casino project meets the stipulated timeline but also provides residents and visitors with access to gaming facilities sooner than initially anticipated.
The gaming complex, to be situated on a six-acre plot between Harbor Park and Norfolk's Amtrak station, is designed to be a comprehensive entertainment destination. Plans for the project outline a substantial gaming floor featuring 1,500 slot machines and 50 table games, catering to a wide variety of preferences for casino patrons.
Additionally, the developers have announced that the resort will include a 200-room hotel, eight diverse dining establishments, and a 1,300-space parking garage to accommodate visitors. The combination of gaming, lodging, dining, and ample parking is expected to position the resort as a key attraction in the region, drawing tourists and locals alike.
The groundbreaking follows extensive planning and revisions aimed at ensuring the project's success and compliance with local and state regulations. Over the years, the development team has collaborated closely with Norfolk city officials to refine plans and meet the required standards for construction and operation.
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Overcoming Challenges
While the project encountered several obstacles that slowed its initial progress, the commitment of the Pamunkey Indian Tribe and Boyd Gaming has remained steadfast. The partnership has continued to move forward with the goal of bringing a world-class casino experience to Norfolk, also known as the Mermaid City.
The Norfolk project, which received widespread community support during the referendum, is anticipated to have a significant positive impact on the city's economic landscape. Projections for the resort indicate that it could generate substantial revenue and create numerous job opportunities, both during the construction phase and once the facility opens to the public.
Supporters of the project believe that the Norfolk casino will bring a fresh wave of growth and development to the area. By providing a venue that combines gaming, hospitality, and dining, the casino is expected to attract a diverse range of visitors, which will likely benefit surrounding businesses and contribute to Norfolk's reputation as a destination city. In addition to the economic benefits, the casino's location, adjacent to the popular waterfront area near Harbor Park, is expected to enhance the appeal of the venue, capitalizing on its accessibility to Norfolk's downtown area and the city's existing attractions.
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