Norfolk bets on professional gaming operator to bring long-delayed casino to life

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — Norfolk City Council has voted to allow Las Vegas-based Boyd Gaming to take the lead on building the long-delayed casino planned next to Harbor Park.

In a 7-1 vote, with Councilwoman Andria McClellan voting no, council approved an several amendments to the casino development abd land purchase agreements that council members hope will finally bring the project to the Norfolk waterfront.

Before the vote came down, speakers at the city council meeting had mixed reactions.

McClellan, in voting no, said she still had concerns she expressed starting in 2019 with the project, including public safety, stress on the adjacent neighborhoods and issues that gambling can bring “those that can least afford it.”

“So, what hasn’t changed in those five years? My original concerns, concerns about public safety, the stress the casino could place on the adjacent neighborhood, and the worry that the problem gambling will cost those who least afford it,” McClellan said.

Following the vote, the Pamunkey Chief acknowledged the changes that have been made from the original plans. However, the Tribe believes with Boyd Gaming on board, they can bring the world-class resort that was always intended.

“We’re excited the Pamunkey Tribe has been in Virginia for over 10,000 years, the past 400 have been challenging, we see this as great opportunity to help our travel citizens with education, housing, medical care, various things that can empower them in their lives,” said Chief Robert Gray of the Pamunkey Indian Tribe.

Boyd is one of the largest gaming operators in the country, with 28 gaming entertainment properties in 10 states and $3.7 billion in revenue.

“We’re excited about all of the amenities in the amenity package, so the quality hasn’t changed, the project budget hasn’t changed, and we’re going to take what we have available going to do the best we can to make Norfolk proud,” said Uri Clinton, general counsel and corporate secretary for Boyd Gaming.

The casino is set to come to Norfolk, yet some things still need to be worked out, including parking in the Harbor Park area overall. It could be completed by 2027.

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