Virginia: Norfolk’s Casino developer further delays city review of latest plans

The latest iteration of the HeadWaters Resort and Casino plans in Norfolk, Virginia has further been delayed until January 22nd. The Pamunkey Indian Tribe and its casino development team were scheduled to present the latest iteration of HeadWaters Resort and Casino plans to the Architectural Review Board on Monday. However, due to the changed agenda, the developer will now put forth its presentation later this month. 

In an emailed statement cited by The Virginian Pilot, casino spokesperson Jay Smith said that the tribe and developer had met with City Council members and city staff to “discuss a number of issues concerning the project and site” and were working to address those issues before presenting the plans to the review board. The publication further cited Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander, who said he was unaware of any issues with the latest proposal.

Several changes have been brought to the Norfolk casino since voters approved its construction on the waterfront near Harbor Park in 2020. Earlier in 2022, the developer scrapped plans for a temporary casino inside Harbor Park in 2020, as it could not meet the specifications of the 2020 voter referendum.

Following this, the developer also revealed new, two-phase plans for a casino and resort in mid-2023, which faced opposition from city leaders and were subsequently pulled by the developer.

Earlier in December, the developer unveiled the latest plan, according to which gaming would begin in 2025 while other parts of the resort, like the hotel and spa, would be under construction. As per the publication, the latest plans do not include a once-proposed Elizabeth River marina on the site.

The casino had earlier stated that the 300-plus room hotel would include a rooftop bar, infinity pool, luxury spa, and rooftop outdoor events space detailed in the renderings completed by HKS design. Other features proposed for the resort casino include a steak and seafood restaurant, sports bar and grill.