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Pamunkey Tribe Announces Plans For Two Virginia Casinos

Pamunkey Tribe Purchased Land In Both Norfolk And Richmond As Sites For Proposed $350 Million Casino Resorts

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Conceptual rendering of proposed Richmond casino (Photo c/o Pamunkey Tribe)Casino gambling is one step closer to coming to Virginia following an announcement from a Native American tribe Friday.

The Pamunkey tribe announced plans to build two $350 million casino resorts in the state. The tribe purchased land in Richmond and Norfolk for their proposed casinos.

The proposed Richmond property would feature a 275-room hotel tower with views of the downtown skyline and the James River. It would also have a spa, fitness center, pool, high-end restaurants, a sports bar, and a parking garage, according to a statement from the tribe.

The plans for the Norfolk venue have fewer details, despite the tribe purchasing 13.4 acres of land along the Elizabeth River from the city, because it will take government action to get the go-ahead on breaking ground.

The Richmond-Times Dispatch is reporting that the Norfolk venue would require Gov. Ralph Northam to sign legislation that would allow commercial casinos in Virginia. Northam signed legislation regarding the topic last year, but it needs to be renewed in order for it to become law of the land.

The paper claimed that the Richmond casino will be built regardless because the tribe has federal gaming rights within the state.

“With Richmond, we maintain the flexibility to pursue the federal route if a commercial bill does not pass, or even if a commercial bill passes,” said Jay Smith, a spokesperson of the Pamunkey Tribe.

The tribe estimates that its projects would draw an additional 4 million visitors to the state each year. If approved

“We are very excited about our plans to bring a great resort and casino to Richmond,” said Robert Grey, chief of the Pamunkey Indian Tribe, to the Times Dispatch. “Not only does this help fulfill the government’s intent to use gaming to help us secure our future, but it will also be a great economic boost for the city of Richmond and its citizens.”