Published on: December 1, 2025, 02:27h.
Updated on: December 1, 2025, 02:38h.
- Roanoke city officials are exploring casino development opportunities
- Local state lawmakers are not in favor of casino legalization
Despite a lack of enthusiasm from state legislators representing Southwest Virginia, the Roanoke City Council remains committed to its casino initiative.
Since Virginia legalized casinos in 2020, licenses have been limited to five areas: Portsmouth, Norfolk, Petersburg, Bristol, and Danville.
The city government of Roanoke believes that a casino could stimulate significant economic growth. With a stagnant population of around 100,000, a number unchanged since 1980, local officials are determined to revitalize the area.
Currently, Roanoke’s City Council is in the process of completing its Legislative Program for the 2026 General Assembly, which outlines the key initiatives they hope to see approved in Richmond. Among them, according to Cardinal News, is a requested casino license.
“Securing a casino license is our top priority this session, even if our representatives aren’t in support,” Councilor Peter Volosin is quoted in an email to Councilor and Vice Mayor Terry McGuire, who leads the development of this legislative document.
Casinos are already operational in four of the authorized cities, and Petersburg is set to launch its temporary casino next month.
Boosting the Local Economy
The City Council envisions transforming the Berglund Special Events Center into a casino resort. Established in 1971, this publicly operated venue serves multiple purposes, regularly hosting college and high school sports events, conventions, wrestling, and concerts.
City officials expect that a casino could create up to 1,000 permanent jobs and significantly increase tax revenues, benefiting the entire region. Additionally, the Berglund Center is anticipated to require $25 million for maintenance and upgrades over the next decade, with casino revenues potentially covering these costs.
However, state-level officials from Roanoke have not shown support for the casino initiative.
For a casino to be established in Roanoke, state approval is necessary, followed by a local referendum to gauge public support among city residents.
“I would not support a casino, likely under any circumstances,” stated Del. Sam Rasoul (D-Roanoke).
State Del. Joe McNamara (R-Roanoke) and state Sen. David Suetterlein (R-Roanoke) have also publicly expressed their opposition.
Historically, Roanoke’s legislative priorities have revolved around economic development. In the last General Assembly session, the council urged lawmakers to pass legislation enabling tax revenues to fund improvements at Hotel Roanoke and sought financial backing for enhancements at Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport and expediting repairs on I-81 without tolling.
Chances Seem Low
The 2020 gaming legislation in Virginia set a maximum of five casinos in the state. Although Richmond was included initially, the license was shifted to Petersburg following two unsuccessful local referendums in the capital.
While various municipalities are exploring casino opportunities, a significant legislative faction supporting the expansion of the state’s gaming industry for a sixth license has yet to materialize.