Norfolk has launched its new interim gaming hall, which features 132 slot machines and a limited player capacity, officially opening its doors on Friday after years of planning. The profits from the hall’s operations will support the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore.
This temporary establishment provides an initial glimpse of the city’s forthcoming $750 million waterfront casino resort, projected to include 1,500 slot machines, 50 table games, and a 200-room hotel set to debut in 2027.
Named the Norfolk Casino Interim Gaming Hall, this venue marks the city’s inaugural entry into regulated gaming. Its operational success gives locals a sneak peek into what they can expect from the future HeadWaters Resort & Casino, which will be located on the Norfolk waterfront.
Food trucks positioned outside the venue offer various dining options, while an indoor vending machine dispenses ready-to-drink cocktails. The gaming hall operates daily from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. and can host up to 100 players. Visitors can enjoy popular slot games such as Buffalo Ultimate Stampede, Dragon Link, and Lightning Link, available on-site.
Project Delays and Transition
Norfork’s casino initiative has faced multiple challenges since its inception. Initial plans for the HeadWaters project became stalled due to political discussions, design changes, and funding complications, leading to questions about its progress.
Boyd Gaming took on a crucial role, offering financing and operational expertise that facilitated the establishment of the interim casino and rejuvenated the overall project.
Ron Bailey, vice president and general manager of Norfolk Casino, recognized the challenges faced throughout the project’s development, including doubts related to its advancement.
Boyd Gaming’s Contribution
The involvement of Boyd Gaming has enabled the creation of the interim facility while plans for the larger resort continue to progress. Bailey mentioned that numerous residents are experiencing casino gaming for the first time, and the interim hall offers them a chance to immerse themselves in this new environment.
“Many people have never stepped into a casino before,” Bailey stated. “Our goal is to craft an enjoyable casino experience that motivates them to return for more gaming fun.”
Upon completion, the permanent resort is anticipated to generate approximately 850 jobs and positively impact Norfolk’s economy through increased hospitality and tourism. The design includes various dining options, a spa, meeting spaces, and an outdoor terrace with views of the Elizabeth River.
The Casino Landscape in Virginia
Norfolk joins the ranks as the fourth Virginia city to introduce casino gaming, following Bristol, Portsmouth, and Danville. State statistics indicated that these three casinos collectively generated $73 million in revenue last month.
Virginia’s gaming sector is on a growth trajectory, with a fifth casino currently under construction in Petersburg. The temporary Live! Petersburg facility is slated to open next January, while the permanent resort is expected to be finished by 2027.
Developers predict that the full establishment could yield nearly $3 billion in revenue for the area and create around 7,500 job opportunities.