The Norfolk City Council has officially given the green light to move forward with plans for a new casino in the city, making it one step closer to becoming a reality. After months of deliberation and public input, the council voted unanimously to approve a development agreement with the Pamunkey Indian Tribe, which will bring a world-class casino and resort to the area.
The proposed casino, which will be located on a 13.25-acre waterfront site near Harbor Park, is expected to bring a significant economic boost to the city. The project is estimated to create over 2,500 construction jobs and 2,000 permanent jobs once the casino is operational. In addition, the casino is projected to generate millions of dollars in revenue for the city each year, providing much-needed funding for infrastructure improvements and other community initiatives.
The Pamunkey Indian Tribe, which has a long history in the area, has partnered with Tennessee-based gaming company, Rush Street Gaming, to bring the casino project to fruition. The tribe has committed to investing over $500 million in the development, which will include a hotel, restaurants, entertainment venues, and a gaming floor with over 3,500 slot machines and 120 table games.
The approval of the development agreement by the city council comes after months of public debate and discussion over the potential impacts of a casino in Norfolk. Supporters of the project argue that it will bring much-needed jobs and revenue to the city, while opponents have raised concerns about issues such as traffic congestion and problem gambling.
In response to these concerns, the development agreement includes provisions for traffic mitigation measures and funding for programs to address problem gambling. The agreement also includes a commitment from the tribe to prioritize hiring local residents for construction jobs and permanent positions at the casino.
With the approval of the development agreement, the next steps in the process will involve finalizing the design and obtaining necessary permits and approvals from city and state agencies. Construction on the casino is expected to begin in the next year, with an opening date projected for late 2023.
Overall, the approval of the development agreement marks a significant milestone in the long-awaited journey to bring a casino to Norfolk. The project has the potential to transform the city’s economy and provide new opportunities for residents, while also preserving the history and heritage of the Pamunkey Indian Tribe. As the project moves forward, all eyes will be on Norfolk to see how this new addition will shape the future of the city.
