In Norfolk, Virginia, City Manager Chip Filer told the city council that state law would allow the Pamunkey Indian Tribe to apply for a temporary operating permit before its permanent $500 million HeadWaters Resort & Casino would open. The temporary facility would have to be located in the “footprint where the casino will be located.” The city’s Director of Economic Development Jared Chalk confirmed the Pamunkey Indian Tribe already has approached the city regarding a temporary license.
One site under consideration is the Norfolk Boxing + Fitness Center and the Hits at the Park Restaurant located at the Norfolk Tides stadium in Harbor Park. The boxing center has been closed since the Covid-19 pandemic began in March 2020 and the restaurant typically is only open when the Tides play. HeadWaters spokesman Jay Smith said, “The Pamunkey Indian Tribe, in coordination with the development of its HeadWaters Resort & Casino, is excited to discuss with the city of Norfolk the possibility of opening a restaurant and lounge with limited gaming. No decisions have been made at this point, but we will continue to have conversations with the city about this opportunity. We are ready to make a major investment in the stadium, create job opportunities and begin providing tax revenue to the city, if this is something they would like to pursue.”
Construction has not begun on the site. Chalk explained one reason is site work can’t begin until permits are issued. Also, the Virginia Lottery Board has yet to award any casino licenses. But Deputy City Manager Patrick Roberts said that’s expected in June or July, followed by a 2-year construction period.
The Pamunkey Tribe and developers are eager to open a temporary facility as soon as possible to get a jump on Portsmouth’s $300 million Rivers Casino, just seven miles away. It’s expected to open in February 2023. Filer said, “The mayor has stressed we don’t want a tent, we don’t want cargo containers, we don’t want a trailer with air conditioning in it. If you are going to something, we want to see it in a permanent spot. In something that looks good and represents the area. The restaurant and the boxing center I think are absolutely possibilities for that.”
Councilwoman Andria McClellan stated the boxing center must be relocated before the city commits to using the site for a casino. She noted boxing has been viewed as a way to help prevent gun violence. “We need a plan in place before we consider that. Where that boxing center goes and who pays for it,” she said.
