Construction on Norfolk's $750 million casino resort will begin in January, according to Boyd Gaming officials. The project, a partnership between Boyd Gaming and the Pamunkey Indian Tribe, follows a ceremonial groundbreaking held in October.

David Strow, Boyd's vice president of corporate communications, confirmed that the company has submitted all licensing materials to Virginia gaming regulators and is finalizing site plans with Norfolk city officials.

The project gained momentum after Boyd Gaming acquired an 80% stake from previous investor Jon Yarbrough. Norfolk voters had approved the casino resort in 2020 with 65% support, making it one of four casino projects authorized through local referendums.

The planned resort will feature:

• 200-room hotel overlooking Harbor Park and Elizabeth River
• 1,500 slot machines
• 50 live dealer table games
• FanDuel Sportsbook
• Eight bars and restaurants
• Live entertainment venue
• Meeting and event spaces
• Resort pool

A temporary gaming pavilion is expected to open next year while construction of the permanent facility continues. Boyd Gaming, which operates 28 casinos across 10 states and generated $3.7 billion in revenue in 2023, brings significant industry experience to the project.

This development joins Virginia's growing casino market, which includes three operational casinos and a planned $600 million Live! Casino & Hotel in Petersburg. Potential legislation may also qualify Fairfax County for a casino, though this faces considerable opposition.

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