Virginia: Petersburg breaks ground on $1.4 billion Live! Casino & Hotel project

City officials, developers, and community leaders gathered to break ground on the highly anticipated Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia, marking a key development in what is being touted as a multi-billion-dollar economic boost for the city.

The project, spearheaded by The Cordish Companies and Bruce Smith Enterprise, is part of a $1.4 billion master plan set to roll out in phases. A temporary gaming facility is set to open by late 2025 and the full-scale casino resort will launch in 2027.

State Senator Lashrecse Aird described the project as a defining moment: “There are moments in time where you know that one singular event will change the trajectories of a community and today’s project is one of those projects, unquestionably.”

The casino resort will feature a 200-room luxury hotel, 1,600 slot machines, 65 live table games, a sportsbook, and a 4,000-seat entertainment venue designed to attract top-tier talent. It is expected to generate $2.8 billion in economic impact over the next decade, $504 million in tax revenue, and 7,500 jobs, including 1,400 permanent positions once fully operational.

Ahead of the construction, Cordish Gaming Group has already committed significant funds to the city. Petersburg Mayor Sam Parham confirmed that casino revenue is earmarked for public services, including new fire trucks, police vehicles, and a new elementary school.

To ensure residents benefit from the project, Cordish has partnered with Richard Bland College to launch a six-week dealer training school, offering pathways to well-paying jobs. Rob Norton, President of Cordish Gaming Group, said the expectation is that an average dealer will earn between $60,000 and $70,000 a year.

The casino’s impact extends beyond employment. Local businesses will have opportunities to supply goods and services, with Cordish committing to prioritizing minority-, women-, and veteran-owned vendors. A Local Contractor and Supplier Fair will be held on April 9 at the Petersburg Public Library to connect businesses with procurement opportunities.

While many city leaders and business owners see the casino as a game-changer, some residents have voiced concerns over potential downsides, including crime and gambling addiction.