The Alexander Company in Madison, Wisconsin, which renovates historic buildings, has received numerous inquiries from casino operators about its White Mill building in Danville, Virginia. Alexander Company Development Project Manager Dave Vos said the firm understands legislation is pending that could allow casino gambling in Danville. “That’s something that’s certainly on our radar. We’d welcome that as a use in the building,” Vos said.
Vos and city officials would not reveal which casino companies or how many have expressed interest in the property located along the downtown waterfront. Economic Development Director Telly Tucker said, “I can’t comment on any speculative projects or unannounced projects. There are too many scenarios and unanswered questions for anybody to speculate at this point.” Mayor Alonzo Jones commented besides the White Mill, casino operators have looked at the former Dan River Inc. textile mill at Schoolfield.
Last March, Governor Ralph Northam signed legislation directing the Joint Legislative and Review Commission to conduct a comprehensive study of casino gaming regulations and submit a report by December 1. The measure also establishes the framework for the Lottery Board to oversee gambling in Danville, Bristol and Portsmouth if voters in those cities approve a casino. Referenda on casinos also would be allowed in Richmond and Norfolk, possible sites for a Pamunkey Indian Tribe casino.
The legislation also requires a gaming license to be issued only for projects with a minimum capital investment of $200 million in land, facilities, infrastructure, equipment and furnishings. The General Assembly must re-enact the legislation during the 2020 session.
In January, the Danville Industrial Development Authority approved an agreement with the Alexander Company for an option to buy the White Mill building for $3 million. Under the agreement, the company has until fall to decide if it will purchase the property and what it could be used for.
