Rosie’s Gaming Emporiums have resumed their regular operating hours and are considering expanding to Emporia, a city in Virginia.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Rosie’s locations have implemented reduced operating hours for their gaming parlors, which feature historical horse racing (HHR) and on-site racebooks.
Nevertheless, the majority of Rosie’s establishments will remain operational until 2 a.m. on weekdays and 4 a.m. on weekends.
Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam announced relaxed business restrictions in the commonwealth, effective from Monday, March 1. The alterations primarily targeted restaurants and bars, while also lifting the previously imposed curfew from midnight to 5 a.m.
Rosie’s Hours in Virginia
At present, Rosie’s has establishments in five cities and towns in Virginia. However, all of these locations were forced to close when the pandemic began.
On July 1, they finally resumed full operations albeit with reduced hours and limited capacity.
Presently, the updated operating hours for Rosie’s have been restored to their pre-pandemic schedule for both opening and closing.
- Richmond’s operating hours are from 8 a.m. to 4 a.m. every day.
- Hampton: Open from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. every day.
- Vinton’s operating hours are from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Sundays through Thursdays, and from 8 a.m. to 4 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
- The operating hours for New Kent are as follows: from Sunday to Thursday, it opens at 8 a.m. and closes at 2 a.m.; on Fridays and Saturdays, it opens at 8 a.m. and remains open until 4 a.m.
- Dumfries operating hours are from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 8 a.m. to 4 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
The final opportunity to purchase alcohol is at 11:15 p.m. every night, and all alcoholic beverages must be removed from the gaming floor by 11:55 p.m.
To promote social distancing, Rosie’s HHR locations will keep operating at a limited capacity. To learn more about the safety measures implemented at all locations, visit the “Extra Care” section on Rosie’s website.
In 2018, Rosie’s HHR machines were introduced, resembling conventional slot machines in appearance and gameplay. However, these machines incorporated a few minor yet crucial modifications, which played a pivotal role in facilitating their legalization.
As Casinos Await, Rosie’s Eyes Further Expansion
Colonial Downs, the proprietor of the esteemed horse racing parlors, seeks to introduce an expansive rendition of Rosie’s in the charming town of Dumfries. Alongside historical horse racing and off-track betting, this fresh establishment in Dumfries would encompass a hotel, versatile meeting areas, an impressive theater accommodating 1,500 seats, as well as a variety of bars and restaurants.
In addition, it was recently announced that there have been discussions between officials and Emporia officials regarding the possibility of opening a Rosie’s establishment in the city. Located in southeast Virginia, Emporia is home to around 5,500 residents. Pending a voter referendum, this project is expected to generate roughly 100 employment opportunities, offering an average compensation package of $47,000, as stated in the announcement.
In the words of Aaron Gomes, the Chief Operating Officer of Colonial Downs Group:
We are incredibly thrilled about the chance to introduce Emporia to the exceptional entertainment and gaming experience of Rosie’s. Moving forward, we eagerly anticipate spreading the positive impact of job creation, economic development, tax revenue generation, and most importantly, fun, with the people of Emporia. Our commitment to spurring economic growth and uplifting communities across Virginia, from Vinton to Hampton, has been a source of pride. It would be a great honor for us to replicate this success in Emporia.
Starting from the following year, Virginia will witness the emergence of casinos in up to five cities following their recent legalization. These lavish casino-resorts will directly compete with Rosie’s in attracting customers. Furthermore, these casinos will have the advantage of offering a wide array of games such as blackjack, craps, roulette, and poker, which are not available at Rosie’s HHR locations.
Additionally, Rosie’s is also aiming to secure a portion of the casino market. The Richmond casino project, in collaboration with Colonial Downs and Urban One, is one of six groups vying for this opportunity. The casino’s approval will be determined by Richmond voters through a referendum scheduled for November.
Colonial Downs plans to construct a massive casino-resort valued at $517 million, spanning across 300,000 square feet. This establishment is estimated to generate 1,500 full-time employment opportunities and contribute $47 million in annual tax revenue. The company has already formed a partnership with Live Nation, ensuring the organization of 200 live music concerts and various entertainment events at the resort each year.
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