Virginia is for casinos.
The Virginia Lottery Board (VLB) unanimously approved Golden Eagle Corporation's application for a license to open a casino in downtown Norfolk on Wednesday, Oct. 29, becoming one of now four approved casino facility operators in Virginia.
Golden Eagle, who are partnering with the Pamunkey Indian Tribe and Boyd Gaming, will join Caesars Virginia in Danville, Hard Rock Bristol and Rivers Casino Portsmouth.
The approval comes after a comprehensive review of application materials submitted by Golden Eagle Corporation II, LLC, and an extensive background investigation by the Virginia Lottery, which determined it met standards of integrity, financial stability, security and responsible gaming.
“We are honored to receive the Virginia Lottery Board’s approval,” said Ron Bailey, vice president and general manager of the casino. “With this step complete, we have taken a major step toward the realization of our vision of creating a best-in-market gaming resort in the City of Norfolk. We look forward to opening the doors of The Interim Gaming Hall next month and continue to work toward the opening of our $750 million casino resort in late 2027.”
Under legislation passed by the General Assembly in 2020, the Virginia Lottery licenses and regulates casinos and sports betting in the Commonwealth.
“For the Pamunkey Indian Tribe, this license is more than regulatory clearance,” said Kevin Brown, chief of the Pamunkey Tribe. “It is a milestone of opportunity, a reaffirmation of our long-term vision for economic development, job creation and partnership with the community of Norfolk. We look forward to shared success ahead with our partners at Boyd Gaming and the City of Norfolk.”
September Casino Figures
Last month, the three operating casinos generated $73.1 million in gaming revenue with $15.8 million in taxes paid to the state's Gaming Proceeds Fund.
Caesars Virginia paid more than $6.48 million in taxes.
