Which Virginia casino will be the first to welcome gamblers, food enthusiasts, and all kinds of entertainment seekers through its doors?
The team responsible for the upcoming Hard Rock Casino and Resort Bristol project aims to be the pioneers in their industry.
The $500 million resort in Bristol, a Virginia city on the Tennessee border, is currently under construction.
Despite the strong support from residents who voted in favor of Hard Rock Bristol, the progress on the project may not be apparent to them. However, an executive has revealed that behind the scenes, things are actually moving swiftly.
Hard Rock Bristol wants to be first Virginia casino
Hard Rock Bristol aspires to be the pioneer in casino establishments. Following the successful passing of the casino referendum in Bristol, officials initially discussed the potential of launching a temporary casino before the year 2021 comes to a close.
Due to logistical challenges, particularly the sluggish regulatory process, the ultimate attainment of that objective will be rendered unattainable. Nevertheless, the utilization of the former Bristol Mall location and the incorporation of existing infrastructure by the Hard Rock Casino and Resort Bristol may expedite the progress towards achieving this goal.
The reason behind the possibility of Hard Rock Bristol opening before casinos in Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth is that voters in all three cities have already approved casinos in the 2020 Election Cycle. However, Richmond voters will have their own referendum during the 2021 election cycle. Even if the Richmond referendum is successful, it would be extremely challenging for the resort to open before the planned opening of Hard Rock Bristol.
According to Martin Kent, the president of The United Company, as reported by the Kingsport Times News:
“We have the advantage of being the pioneers in this endeavor due to our already established infrastructure. Not only is this a first for Virginia, but we are also leading the way in Bristol when it comes to progressing with the casino project and eventually completing the full resort. I want to alleviate any concerns by assuring everyone that this project is still very much underway. Despite the lack of visible exterior renovations, significant progress is being made behind the scenes. Rest assured, it remains a top priority for us, and we are actively pushing forward with it.”
The project involved a collaboration between The United Company, its chairman and CEO, Jim McGlothlin, and Hard Rock. Notably, project officials did not seek any public funds, tax benefits, or additional incentives for the establishment of the casino.
When do other VA casinos open?
When it comes to the Virginia casino market, Hard Rock Bristol will stand out with its truly distinctive features.
Due to its close proximity to Tennessee, the Bristol casino is expected to attract numerous visitors from the Volunteer State. Moreover, its deep-rooted connection to bluegrass and country music, along with its collaboration with Hard Rock, makes it particularly enticing for a younger crowd. Notably, the casino will feature a vibrant live-music venue and amphitheater, boasting a bustling concert lineup.
In addition, it is worth noting that the casino-resort is expected to be the first establishment of its kind in the market. Below are the tentative opening dates for the other casinos in Virginia:
- The Rivers Portsmouth Casino Resort is set to open in early 2025.
- The second half of 2025 will mark the opening of Caesars Casino Resort Danville.
- In 2025, the HeadWaters Resort & Casino (Norfolk) will be open for business.
- The status of One Casino + Resort in Richmond is currently not available.
Naturally, Kent, being the pacesetter, mentioned that Hard Rock Bristol will have the responsibility of overcoming numerous obstacles and bureaucratic procedures.
“We are pioneering this new industry in Virginia, making us the first movers,” he explained to the Kingsport newspaper. “As we progress, we are encountering various intricacies that require careful navigation.”
What to expect with Hard Rock Bristol
Once fully completed, Hard Rock Bristol, anticipated as Virginia’s inaugural casino, will showcase a variety of attractions.
The highlights include:
- The hotel currently has 350 rooms and plans to double its capacity, reaching a total of 700 rooms in the future.
- 100,000-square-foot casino
- A conference and meeting center spanning 50,000 square feet.
- Sportsbook and poker room
Aside from the live-music venues, Hard Rock Bristol is anticipated to feature an array of dining establishments, bars, and retail stores, alongside a pool and spa facility.
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