Live! Casino Virginia has officially opened its temporary gaming facility in Petersburg, becoming the region’s first full-scale casino and adding another operational venue to Virginia’s expanding casino landscape.
Developed by The Cordish Companies in partnership with Bruce Smith Enterprise, the facility began operations on January 23 following a ceremonial opening attended by state and local officials, community leaders and former NFL quarterback Joe Theismann, who placed the first ceremonial wager.
The temporary casino is located off Interstate 95, approximately 25 miles south of Richmond, and operates 24 hours a day. It features 75,000 square feet of gaming space, housing more than 900 slot machines and 33 live-action table games.
The venue also includes a bar, a quick-service restaurant and more than 1,000 free parking spaces.
According to the operators, the temporary casino will remain in use while construction continues on the permanent Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia development on the adjacent site.
The permanent resort is expected to open in late 2027 and will include a larger gaming floor, hotel accommodations, meeting and entertainment space, and expanded dining options.
During the opening events, $15.05m was presented to the City of Petersburg and local charities. Of that amount, $15m was allocated to the city as part of a broader funding commitment tied to the project, with additional contributions scheduled in future phases.
City officials said the funds will support initiatives including education, housing, workforce development, childcare, healthcare and services for elderly residents.
An additional $50,000 was generated during a charity test day earlier in the week, with proceeds split evenly between Feed More and the John Randolph Foundation.
The property has also launched a donation initiative through its gaming kiosks, allowing patrons to contribute spare change from winnings to local nonprofit organizations.
The Petersburg project is part of a wider, phased $1.4bn master development plan that aims to position the city as a regional entertainment and tourism destination.
The opening comes as Virginia lawmakers continue to debate the future scope of casino gaming in the state. Earlier this month, legislation was reintroduced that would allow Fairfax County to pursue a casino development, subject to voter approval, despite ongoing opposition from local officials and residents.
Virginia currently permits casino developments in a limited number of cities, including Norfolk, Portsmouth and Danville, with each project requiring approval through a local referendum
