NORFOLK, Va. — After years of planning, Norfolk casino project leaders say they will officially break ground on October 30.
The Pamunkey Indian Tribe and Boyd Gaming, the developers of the proposed casino, say the groundbreaking ceremony will take place near Harbor Park.
Watch previous coverage: Should smoking be banned at Norfolk's proposed casino?
The announcement comes a week after Norfolk city council members approved the casino's design in a 7-1 vote, allowing construction to move forward.
News 3 has been following developments on the project for years. Back in 2020, Norfolk voters approved allowing a casino to be built. That referendum includes a 2025 deadline to have gaming on-site.
Following a series of delays, a development agreement was proposed to meet the deadline. It entails putting in a temporary casino that can be operated while the permanent facility is under construction.
Watch previous coverage: Pamunkey Chief has 'absolute confidence' Norfolk casino project will be built
Project developers have shared their enthusiasm with us about bringing the casino and resort to the Mermaid City.
"We feel very comfortable and we're just excited to be able to bring the project to fruition for the city and the Commonwealth and the Tribe," Pamunkey Indian Tribe Chief Robert Gray previously told News 3.
The proposal includes plans for 1,500 slot machines, 50 table games, a 200-room hotel, eight restaurants, and a 1,300-spot parking garage. The resort and casino will sit on six acres of land between Harbor Park and the Amtrak station.
