Norfolk Opens Interim Casino as $750M HeadWaters Resort Development Advances

The Norfolk Casino Interim Gaming Hall began operations Friday, offering 132 slot machines and capacity for up to 100 players as the city launches its entry into Virginia’s regulated gaming market. All proceeds from the opening day will benefit the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and Eastern Shore.

The temporary facility provides Norfolk residents with a preview of the planned HeadWaters Resort & Casino, a $750 million waterfront development scheduled to open in 2027. The permanent resort will feature 1,500 slot machines, 50 table games, a 200-room hotel, multiple dining venues, spa facilities, meeting spaces, and an outdoor deck overlooking the Elizabeth River.

Boyd Gaming Partnership Advances Project

The interim gaming hall operates daily from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m., featuring popular slot titles including Buffalo Ultimate Stampede, Dragon Link, and Lightning Link. Food trucks stationed outside the building provide dining options, while an indoor vending machine offers ready-to-drink cocktails.

Boyd Gaming’s involvement as funding and operational partner has been instrumental in advancing both the temporary facility and the larger resort project. The Norfolk casino development faced multiple delays related to political debates, design revisions, and funding challenges before Boyd Gaming’s participation helped revive the initiative.

Ron Bailey, vice president and general manager of Norfolk Casino, noted that many local residents are experiencing casino gaming for the first time through the interim hall.

“There are a lot of people who’ve never even set foot into a casino before. It’s about creating a casino experience for them that’s going to make them want to come back and enjoy their time when they’re gaming.”

Economic Impact and Regional Context

The permanent HeadWaters Resort & Casino is projected to generate approximately 850 jobs and contribute to Norfolk’s economy through hospitality and tourism activity. The waterfront location positions the resort as a destination property along the Elizabeth River.

Norfolk becomes the fourth Virginia city to offer casino gaming, joining Bristol, Portsmouth, and Danville. State data shows these three existing casinos collectively generated $73 million in revenue last month.

Virginia’s gaming market continues expanding with a fifth casino under construction in Petersburg. The temporary Live! Petersburg facility is expected to open in January 2026, with the permanent resort scheduled for completion in 2027. Developers project the full Petersburg property will generate nearly $3 billion in regional revenue and create approximately 7,500 jobs.

Source: Yogonet