Ready To Rock: Virginia Lottery Approves Preliminary Application For Potential Bristol Casino

Developers affiliated with a potential Hard Rock Casino will be prepared to initiate work if voters in Bristol give their approval for casino gaming this autumn. The project has successfully overcome its initial regulatory obstacle.

On Friday, the board of directors at the Virginia Lottery granted approval to Hard Rock’s pre-certification application. Although this is a promising development for those aspiring to establish casinos, the most significant challenge still lies ahead.

Update on the status of Hard Rock Bristol

By approving Hard Rock’s application, the VA Lottery acknowledges that Hard Rock is the potential developer in Bristol and gives their approval to this arrangement.

Nevertheless, it should be noted that Hard Rock does not possess the necessary license to provide casino games in Bristol, as the lottery lacks the jurisdiction to grant such licenses at present.

The decision lies in the hands of Bristol voters, who will determine the course of action in November. If voters agree, Hard Rock will proceed by submitting a formal license application once the necessary paperwork is prepared.

Hard Rock is actively preparing for approval by making extensive arrangements to commence construction, contingent upon the outcome of the vote. The initial plans primarily revolve around the redevelopment of the old Bristol Mall.

Since its closure in August 2017, the fate of the mall has been uncertain. Initial plans for its revival included the establishment of an independent casino and a facility for cannabinoid production.

In late May, the picture became clearer, at least temporarily, as Bristol’s city council gave unanimous approval to Hard Rock’s plans for the site.

Hard Rock appears to have an advantage in obtaining approval from the lottery, which could allow them to establish their Virginia casino before others. The location of Bristol plays a crucial role in determining the potential success of the venture.

Why Bristol is an ideal spot for a casino

With a population of less than 18,000 at the 2010 census, Bristol is not considered a casino hot spot. The key factor in real estate lies in the three vital words: location, location, and location.

Bristol is located near the Tennessee border, approximately two hours away from Knoxville, TN. It is the closest city among the five in Virginia that may potentially authorize casinos within their boundaries, also being in close proximity to Kentucky.

Both Tennessee and Kentucky currently do not have any casinos within their borders. In 2019, Tennessee only concentrated on expanding online sports betting, while Kentucky’s unsuccessful attempt to expand gambling also did not involve the establishment of physical casinos.

If voters approve, the Hard Rock Bristol would have a distinct advantage in attracting visitors from three states. At present, the approval seems highly probable.

Mostly positive signs for the referendum

Despite the existence of a Facebook page that opposes a casino in Bristol, it only has a modest following of 453 individuals and has not posted any updates since May 16. There is limited additional proof of an orchestrated effort to oppose the referendum.

The project’s strong support is evident from the unanimous approval and positive feedback received by Hard Rock during two public forums. Additionally, the same selling points that convinced the city to award the contract to Hard Rock are likely to be the most convincing arguments for the referendum.

Incorporating both indoor and outdoor entertainment spaces, Hard Rock has unveiled plans to introduce fresh dining and shopping choices at its establishment.

The most attractive aspect could be the creation of 2,000 fresh job opportunities and an approximate $20 million increase in annual tax revenue for Bristol. This would be a remarkable boost for the city, considering its allocated local revenue for fiscal year 2019 was a little less than $33.9 million.

However, all the estimates are entirely contingent upon the voters’ decisions this autumn. If the lottery’s resolution is favorable, developers will be prepared to proceed.