Construction for the $750 million Norfolk Casino officially began on February 14, with the project set to open its doors in late 2027. The Norfolk Casino is a joint venture between the Pamunkey Indian Tribe, Boyd Gaming, and the City of Norfolk. A temporary gaming facility is expected to open later this year to provide early gaming options before the full resort is completed.

The construction of the casino will be managed by S.B. Ballard Construction Company and Yates Construction, both serving as construction managers for the ambitious waterfront project.

Key Players in the Development

According to Uri Clinton, executive vice president and general counsel of Boyd Gaming, the collaboration with S.B. Ballard and Yates Construction brings significant local expertise and experience to the table:

“These two outstanding companies are the ideal team to lead construction of our resort on the Norfolk waterfront,” Clinton said. “S.B. Ballard’s proven track record in this region and extensive network of subcontractors will allow us to successfully meet our development timeline, while Yates’ unparalleled experience in casino development will help us deliver a truly market-leading resort experience.”

The Role of Local Expertise

S.B. Ballard Construction is a well-established company in Virginia and brings substantial local knowledge and an extensive network of contractors to the project. This will be crucial in keeping the Norfolk Casino project on schedule and within budget. On the other hand, Yates Construction, with its specialization in casino and resort development, is expected to bring valuable insight into creating a high-quality, competitive gaming experience.

Economic and Community Impact

The Norfolk Casino project is expected to create significant economic benefits for the region, including the creation of numerous jobs during construction and post-completion, and it is likely to become a major tourism and entertainment hub. The resort will offer a wide range of amenities, including gaming, entertainment, dining, and hotel services, all designed to attract visitors and locals alike.

Local stakeholders have expressed excitement about the project's potential to boost the Norfolk area’s economy, especially as it brings a much-needed new entertainment option to the waterfront.

Timeline and Development Details

As mentioned, while the full Norfolk Casino is slated to open in late 2027, the temporary gaming facility is expected to open its doors later this year to provide immediate gaming options to customers. The construction of the $750 million casino resort marks a significant milestone for Norfolk as it seeks to expand its economic landscape and establish itself as a prime destination for tourists and gaming enthusiasts alike.

Once completed, the resort is expected to be a game-changer for Norfolk's economy, both in terms of job creation and increased tourism revenue. The waterfront development will also likely help reinvigorate the local real estate market, with nearby businesses and property values benefiting from the increased foot traffic and visibility.

With Boyd Gaming, a leader in the gaming industry, involved in the project, and the Pamunkey Indian Tribe contributing their expertise in casino development, the Norfolk Casino is poised to become a leading entertainment venue on the East Coast.

Originally reported by CDC Gaming.