US land-based casino operator Bally’s Corporation has launched a new campaign in an effort to drum up support for its proposed $650m casino resort in Virginia.
Last month, Bally’s put forward a proposal to construct the casino on a 61-acre site located north of Powhite Parkway and east of Chippenham Parkway, on the western border of Richmond.
The facility would span 1.6msq ft and include a casino with 2,500 slot machines, 90 table games, 30 poker tables and high-limit gaming. Other amenities include a sportsbook and 250-room hotel.
The City of Richmond is expected to issue its decision on Bally’s proposal in June, though Richmond must first select a preferred casino operator and location before a referendum on the casino takes place.
If approved by referendum, the chosen casino may be built.
Ahead of this process, Bally’s has rolled out a ‘Bally’s for RVA’ campaign to show how the proposed resort will contribute to Richmond, including an initial $100m upfront payment to the to the city.
The initiative will also highlight how the project would create 4,300 construction jobs and over 2,000 permanent jobs upon completion, as well as how the resort could attract up to 3.7m visitors each year. The site is also expected to generate $5.3bn in economic value generated over a 10-year period.
“We have deep conviction in our commitment to Richmond, which is why we chose the slogan ‘Bally’s For RVA’ to guide our campaign,” Bally’s chief executive George Papanier said.
“Our community-first policy is a fundamental element of who we are as a company. Within each locality where we operate, we build strong, lasting partnerships with residents and businesses.”
Bally’s For RVA will also promote how Bally’s has agreed that the Lanier Family will take a minority ownership interest in the project, and provide construction and development services through Lanier United, a real estate development and construction firm owned by Willie Lanier Jr.
NFL Hall of Gamer Darrell Green has also agreed to acquire a minority stake in the resort, as will Warren Thompson and his food and facilities management business, Thompson Hospitality Corporation.
In addition, Bally’s will highlight initiatives that will run to benefit Richmond’s local community. These include an interactive program to incentivize players and guests to redeem rewards they earn playing at the Bally’s at local retailers.
Bally’s executive vice president strategy and operations, Marc Crisafulli, said: “We are in it to win it. We hope that the residents and small business owners of the City of Richmond appreciate how much we want to partner with them on this exciting adventure.”