Residential engagement is being sought by city authorities to contribute to the planning, placement, and effects of a potential new casino in Richmond.
Officials in the capital city of Virginia are set to determine the project’s outcome through a voter referendum scheduled for November 2, 2021, on Election Day. However, prior to this crucial decision, they are urging residents to participate in an online survey to provide valuable input and assist in shaping the process.
During the 2020 Election Day ballot initiatives, casino-resort projects were approved in four additional cities in Virginia. These projects in Bristol, Danville, Norfolk, and Portsmouth are now progressing. Alongside Richmond, lawmakers recognized these five cities, which were facing economic difficulties, as suitable locations for legal casino gaming establishments. It is expected that the first four casinos will be operational by late 2022 and 2025.
Once the Richmond casino is operational, it is expected to become the busiest casino among all the casinos in Virginia. A study conducted by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission projected that the five operational casinos in Virginia could generate a total gaming revenue of $970 million per year, with $262 million being contributed as state gaming taxes. Out of this significant boost to the economy, the Richmond casino is anticipated to generate approximately one-third of the total revenue.
City officials in Richmond are seeking assistance in determining the best course of action for their portion of the casino industry. They are looking for guidance on various matters, including how to utilize their share of the casino pie.
Richmond casino survey now online
While the primary focus of the survey is on the local community, the Richmond Department of Economic Development is also actively promoting participation from individuals who work, engage in recreational activities, and conduct business in the city of Hampton Roads.
You can access the survey on the City of Richmond website, and please note that it will be closed after December 14th.
The survey covers a range of topics, including:
- Economic development benefits
- Potential community benefits
- Casino features and attractions
- There are various choices available for transportation to the casino.
- Survey participants’ demographic information
First and foremost, this will assist Richmond officials in selecting a preferred casino operator and deciding on a suitable location for the resort. The Pamunkey Indian Tribe, who have been granted permission to construct the Pamunkey Casino Resort Norfolk, are anticipated to lead a consortium of hopefuls in Richmond, with a commitment of $350 million already made towards the project. Nonetheless, the opinions of residents will be prioritized.
Timeline for casino opening in Richmond
Richmond officials have announced their intention to open the request for qualifications/proposals later this month, with the process set to conclude in February.
The survey marks the beginning of the process, where the City of Richmond will collaborate with a consulting group and gather feedback from residents, ultimately leading to the announcement of its chosen operator in the summer of 2021.
According to Mayor Levar Stoney of Richmond,
By implementing a competitive selection process, we aim to evaluate the most suitable prospect for Richmond. This survey presents you with the chance to ensure that the development proposals align with your priorities, which include the provision of living-wage jobs, adoption of sustainable building practices, and investment in the community.
In November, Richmond voters will hold the ultimate decision-making power through the Election Day casino referendum, following the announcement of an operator by officials.
Below is a visual representation of the timeline:
Assuming success, and drawing from the casino vote counts in other Virginia cities, it is probable that both city and casino authorities will be able to establish a schedule for the construction and inauguration of the Richmond casino.
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