Long opposed to casinos, Virginia may be ready to gamble

Washington Post ^ | May 5, 2018 | Gregory S. Schneider

[C19fan]

A hub for gambling is taking shape in a historic area of Virginia between Richmond and Williamsburg, signaling sharp change in a state that long resisted the lure of gaming revenue.

Two weeks ago, a Chicago company announced plans to buy and reopen the dormant Colonial Downs horse-racing track, Virginia’s only facility for major thoroughbred events. The deal — worth some $20 million — was made possible when the General Assembly this year legalized a type of video horse-racing game that some have likened to slot machines.

[C19fan]

VA is one of the last of the hold out states with no casino gambling. There is a belt of Atlantic coast states from VA to GA with no casino gambling except for a Cherokee casino at the NC side of the Smoky Mountains. MGM last year opened a casino right on the MD side of Woodrow Wilson Bridge right off the Capitol Beltway. I went there on a weekday and it was packed with ridiculous minimums; $100 for craps. According to the article 40% of the money flowing into the MGM come from VA residents. VA is going to want their cut of the action and will eventually allow casino gambling. Right now the current proposed sites are just east of Richmond half way to Williamsburg off I-64 within driving distance of the Hampton Roads urban areas; Norfolk, Virginia Beach etc.

[Jim W N]

Hampton Roads urban areas; Norfolk, Virginia Beach, etc.

The last bastion of Christian conservativism in an otherwise Leftist state.

[outofsalt]

The Pawmunky Indian tribe is getting ready to build a casino on tribal lands nearby on tribal lands. Virginia wants to keep some of the action.

[outofsalt]

Did I mention it will be on tribal lands?

[VA40]

So that’s why they are finally widening 64 up to Richmond. Fastest I’ve ever seen them move.

[databoss]

As a life long Virginian I say over my dead body.