To think that just over a year ago, the very location where we are gathered today sat vacant, a blank canvas, which has become the mid-Atlantic region’s newest and finest gaming destination, the first of its kind in the Commonwealth of Virginia.”Ĭorby said about 1,400 construction workers were employed, and the casino expects to employ up to 1,300 permanent positions.

“I would say it’s a sign of things to come for this great city. “The energy over the last week and the lead-up to today has been tremendous,” Donahue said. Past and current council members also gathered to see the yearslong effort become a reality. The Spartan Legion Marching Band of Norfolk State University kicked off the grand opening event, with remarks from city leaders including Mayor Shannon Glover and Economic Development Director Brian Donahue.

“I love it except the smoking,” she said, moments before winning a round of Roulette. Virginia Beach resident Geralene Coward said she’d prefer to see designated smoking sections and that she worries for the older adults. “It’s going to be a neat experience for everyone who comes.”īut not everyone was pleased that the casino allows smoking. “You feel like you’re at a casino, a real casino,” she said. She said enduring the cold weather was worth the wait. Suffolk resident Mia Smith enjoyed a cigarette while playing slots. The casino, located along Victory Boulevard near the newly named Missy Elliott Boulevard, allows smoking, with ashtrays placed throughout the space. “Now I don’t have to go to Atlantic City.”īrown also said he’s happy he won’t have to travel to Maryland anymore.

“In less than 14 months, Rush Street Gaming and Rivers Casino went from 10 shovels and two backhoes to more than 1,446 slot machines, 57 tables, 24 poker tables, five restaurants and bars, and over 25,000 square feet of event space.” “Just 412 days ago, we stood at this very spot and we broke ground, right here in the 757,” said casino general manager Roy Corby during Monday’s grand opening event. Construction began about a year later, and in November, the Virginia Lottery Board granted the operating license. The casino project has moved quickly, getting a green light in 2020 from a successful ballot referendum. Hundreds of people braved windy, cold weather for hours Monday morning as they eagerly waited to step inside and spend some money at Hampton Roads’ first casino - and the state’s first permanent facility.Īfter an estimated $340 million investment and a little more than a year of construction, Rivers Casino Portsmouth officially opened its doors, which will remain open 24 hours per day year-round.

Rivers casino portsmouth photos