‘Bally’s for RVA’: What’s In The $650M Bally’s Richmond Casino Resort Proposal

Written By Dann Stupp on March 11, 2021Last Updated on August 4, 2022
Why stop at voting for the proposed Bally's Richmond casino? Turns out you can also have an ownership stake in the proposed project.

The “Bally’s For RVA” campaign has been initiated by Bally’s Corporation with the aim of promoting awareness for its casino proposal in Richmond.

The campaign, which will incorporate the #BallysForRVA hashtag on social media, was recently announced by company officials.

There are six identified contenders, including Bally’s, competing to build a potential casino in Richmond. The destiny of this project will be decided by voters in the capital city of Virginia through a casino referendum on Election Day in November.

What is the standout feature of the Bally’s proposal? The experienced US gaming operator aims to develop a top-notch resort, hotel, and casino worth $650 million. The project will be known as the Bally’s Richmond Casino Resort.

Bally’s For RVA facts and figures

BallysRichmond.com acts as the central hub for the Bally’s For RVA campaign. In addition, the company has introduced dedicated social-media profiles on Twitter and Facebook.

In addition, you can find a long video available on its YouTube channel.

The following presents essential facts and figures regarding the construction of Bally’s Richmond Casino Resort, with an estimated cost reaching close to $650 million.

  • The City of Richmond will receive an upfront payment of $100 million.
  • There are 2,000 permanent positions available for full-time employment, in addition to 4,300 temporary jobs in the construction sector.
  • Bally’s “Richmond Rewards” local-business program has resulted in the creation of approximately 300 jobs.
  • There are approximately 3.7 million visitors each year, contributing to an annual economic activity and spending of $30 million.
  • Over a span of 10 years, a total of $5.3 billion worth of economic value was generated.

The proposed Richmond casino by Bally’s will be built on a 61-acre plot in the western region of the city, precisely at the crossroads of Powhite Parkway and Chippenham Parkway.

Heavy competition with Richmond casino proposals

Richmond is attracting a multitude of interested parties as it seeks to join the ranks of Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth. All four of these cities in Virginia have given their approval for casino establishments in 2020, and the respective projects have already commenced.

Should Richmond voters maintain the current trend by overwhelmingly supporting the casino, the City of Richmond will require a partner.

Included in the current list are hopefuls.

  • Bally’s Corporation
  • The Cordish Cos.
  • Pamunkey Indian Tribe
  • Urban One and Colonial Downs are two entities that operate in the urban environment.
  • Wind Creek Hospitality
  • Hotels and Casinos of Golden Nugget

In that group, there are a few prominent figures in the casino-gaming industry. Nevertheless, Bally’s possesses numerous advantageous assets. With a total of 12 casinos and racetracks under its ownership in the United States, the company holds a significant presence. Furthermore, Bally’s has further solidified its online presence through strategic acquisitions of SportCaller, Bet.Works, and Monkey Knife Fight.

Bally’s proposal boasted the highest cost, with a staggering $50 million more than The Cordish Cos.’ submission, which ranked as the second-largest in terms of price.

Furthermore, Bally’s has emphasized that none of its other casino establishments would create a conflict of interest. Officials highlight that the closest related property is located 200 miles away, requiring a considerable drive.

As part of the project, Bally’s has pledged to collaborate with small businesses and minority-owned companies in the Richmond area.

Photo by AP / Wayne Parry
Dann Stupp Avatar
Written by

Dann Stupp

Dann Stupp, a seasoned sports journalist, has contributed his writing and editing skills to various renowned outlets such as The Athletic, USA Today, ESPN, MLB.com, and more. Currently, he resides in Lexington, Virginia.

View all posts by Dann Stupp