Like Neighboring Norfolk, Portsmouth Residents Approve Casino Proposal

The Rivers Portsmouth Casino Resort is on its way to becoming a reality, all thanks to the support of Portsmouth voters.

On Tuesday, the project was resoundingly approved by residents as a component of a casino referendum in the southeastern city of Virginia.

The casino referendum on Election Day in the city was approved with a decisive majority, winning by a ratio of almost 2 to 1.

In July, the city of Portsmouth declared Rush Street Gaming as its preferred casino collaborator. Subsequently, the Virginia Lottery, responsible for overseeing casino gambling in the state, promptly approved the company. Following this, the Portsmouth Economic Development Authority gave its endorsement to the agreement.

Portsmouth can now proceed with the $300 million project after the successful ballot initiative.

Portsmouth casino vote results

The voters enthusiastically supported and overwhelmingly voted in favor of the Rivers Portsmouth Casino Resort.

On Election Day, four economically disadvantaged cities in Virginia, including Portsmouth, held a casino referendum, and it is anticipated that all of them will be successful.

The following is the text that was present on the ballots in Portsmouth:

Should the Virginia Lottery Board approve, casino gaming will be allowed at a casino gaming establishment situated in Portsmouth, Virginia at 3606 Victory Boulevard, along with the undeveloped properties in the area known as the “Entertainment District.” This district is located east of Victory Boulevard, south of Interstate 264, west of McLean Street, and north of Greenwood Drive.

This year, like many Americans, Portsmouth residents also participated in early voting. In fact, a significant proportion of 36.3% of registered voters in Portsmouth exercised their right to vote before Election Day by casting their ballots early.

Portsmouth voters might have experienced a sense of urgency, along with a potential “FOMO” or fear of missing out. This is because Norfolk, their neighboring city across the Elizabeth River, has also approved a casino referendum this year. It is worth noting that these two casinos will be situated a mere eight miles apart.

There is no other region in Virginia besides Hampton Roads that has the potential to host two nearby casinos.

During the pre-voting period, prominent figures in Portsmouth who were against the establishment of a casino included notable individuals such as candidates running for mayor. However, in comparison to other cities that were potential hosts for a casino, the opposition in Portsmouth remained relatively subdued throughout this election cycle.

Rivers Portsmouth Casino Resort details

Located just moments away from I-264, the Rivers Portsmouth Casino Resort will be situated at the intersection of Victory Boulevard and Cavalier Boulevard.

The land, spanning 50 acres, remains largely undeveloped at present. Owned by the Portsmouth Economic Development Authority, the City of Portsmouth has consistently expressed its belief that the site holds great potential for economic growth.

The Rivers Portsmouth Casino Resort would showcase a range of attractions, including:

• Hotel
• Casino and sportsbook
• Live event center
• Conference and meeting space
• Restaurants and bars

For almost ten years, numerous individuals have been advocating for the establishment of a casino in Portsmouth. As a result, a significant portion of the project’s specificities have already been thoroughly debated and resolved.

Portsmouth casino’s impact on economy and jobs

The City of Portsmouth has been assured by Rush Street that they will provide a minimum upfront payment of $10 million for the development site.

Furthermore, authorities anticipate recruiting 1,300 permanent, full-time positions, all of which will offer wages and benefits that are deemed “competitive” by officials.

In addition, the implementation of this project will lead to the generation of 1,400 temporary construction job opportunities.

Rush Street officials anticipate that the casino will generate $16 million in fresh tax revenue for Portsmouth on a yearly basis. Furthermore, they project that the casino could inject approximately $200 million into the Portsmouth region each year.

Portsmouth is expected to attract tourists, contributing to the boost in revenue for the resort.

What’s next for Portsmouth casino resort?

Given that Rush Street Gaming currently runs casinos in Pennsylvania, New York, and Illinois, their officials possess a comprehensive understanding of typical casino timelines.

After Virginia finalizes its casino regulations, the Chicago-based casino company will be able to officially submit an application for a casino-gaming license.

On the other hand, it may take the Virginia Lottery up to a year to reach a decision.

While an exact schedule has not yet been determined, it is anticipated that construction for Rivers Portsmouth Casino Resort will commence in 2021. The grand unveiling is projected to take place in 2024.

It is evident that voters are highly enthusiastic about the casino’s development.