Published on: October 21, 2025, 09:42h.
Updated on: October 21, 2025, 09:42h.
- Could a casino be established in Winchester?
- The Virginia city is taking initial steps to explore casino gambling
- Residents of Roanoke appear to be against the proposal for a casino
Over the next few months, Virginia will operate five casinos featuring slot machines, live dealer games, and sportsbooks. Additionally, discussions are underway in three more cities contemplating entry into the expanding gambling market.
Recently, Casino.org reported that Roanoke’s city officials are considering a campaign to persuade state lawmakers to permit a local vote on establishing a casino. The proposal involves the potential development of a casino resort at the Berglund Center, a multi-purpose arena that hosts a wide range of events.
During a recent public hearing, where community input is encouraged, there was a strong backlash against the casino initiative proposed by City Manager Valmarie Turner.
Turner, who took on the role of city manager in Roanoke just this January, previously served in Fairfax City within Loudoun County in Northern Virginia.
Opposition in Roanoke
Chris Craft, a member of the advisory committee for the Berglund Center, expressed his dissatisfaction over being left out of discussions regarding the casino proposal.
“We are unaware—totally in the dark. That feels disrespectful,” Craft stated. “Being on that committee, I value transparency.”
Craft also stated his opposition to a casino in Roanoke, which he considers an “all-American city” where gambling does not fit.
Former Roanoke Mayor Ralph Smith, also a state senator in Richmond, shared his dissent against the casino initiative. He noted that unlike the five other cities housing licensed casinos—Portsmouth, Norfolk, Bristol, Danville, and Petersburg—Roanoke is not facing significant challenges.
Smith encouraged the Council to pursue better governance and attract new businesses that don’t revolve around gambling. Various religious leaders and residents have expressed their concerns regarding the casino as well.
City officials indicate that $25 million will be required to maintain the Berglund Center over the next decade, and casino revenue could help alleviate some of those financial burdens. However, the likelihood of Roanoke conducting a local gaming vote appears slim.
The state would need to modify the 2020 casino law to incorporate Roanoke. State Delegate Joseph McNamara (R-Roanoke) and State Senator David Suetterlein (R-Roanoke) have both voiced their opposition to such changes.
Potential Casino in Winchester?
This week, news emerged that Winchester officials in Frederick County might also explore hosting a casino. Nestled in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, Winchester lies about 55 air miles west of Tysons in Fairfax County, where there’s considerable local pushback against the proposed casino initiatives.
A document recently released on the City of Winchester’s official website indicates that the Winchester-Frederick County Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Visitors Center discussed the potential for a casino in August. This conversation included the Winchester Economic Development Authority.
“We are seeking a type of project that will create a destination event, including hotels and numerous attractions,” stated Addie Lingle, chair of the Winchester EDA, during an interview with WDBJ.