#United States #Virginia #Live! Casino #Cordish Companies #Petersburg

Major Milestone Celebrated for Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia

On October 8, 2026, The Cordish Companies and Bruce Smith Enterprise proudly celebrated a pivotal moment in the construction of Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia with a topping out ceremony. This event marked the completion of the structure's main framework, a crucial step towards the opening of what promises to be a world-class gaming and entertainment destination in Central Virginia.

Located in Petersburg, the Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia is being constructed at the same site as the temporary gaming facility that opened earlier this year. The full resort experience is expected to welcome guests by the end of 2027, contributing to local economic growth and tourism in the years to come.

The celebration was attended by various dignitaries, including Speaker of the House Don Scott, Senator Lashrecse Aird, and Petersburg City Mayor Samuel Parhan, among others. Together, they witnessed the ascending of the final beam, a moment that not only signifies the architectural progress but also the collaborative spirit involved in bringing this project to fruition.

David Cordish, Chairman and CEO of The Cordish Companies, remarked, “The topping out of Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia is a defining moment for this project and a significant milestone in the continued expansion of the Live! brand nationwide. With its scale and quality, Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia will set a new standard for gaming and hospitality in the Commonwealth.” His sentiments were echoed by Bruce Smith, a Hall of Famer and developer, who expressed pride in contributing to the economic transformation of Petersburg.

Impact on the Local Economy

Projected to generate an impressive $2.8 billion in economic stimulus over its first decade, Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia aims to create about 1,600 new permanent jobs. This substantial project is expected to inject approximately $504 million in tax revenues, with $240 million designated specifically for the City of Petersburg. These figures highlight the site's potential to enhance economic opportunities for both residents and local businesses.

The casino is strategically situated at the intersection of Wagner Road and Interstate I-95, providing easy access for visitors from the East Coast. Moreover, its expansive 445,000+ square feet includes over 1,600 state-of-the-art slot machines and 70 live-action table games, making it an epicenter of entertainment and gaming.

Alongside its impressive gaming facilities, Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia will host a 200-room upscale hotel, a state-of-the-art multi-purpose Event Center, and 20 dining venues featuring distinguished concepts like Sports & Social, The Prime Rib®, and Luk Fu.

Culinary and Entertainment Experience

Sports & Social

Sports & Social will stand out as a premier sports bar in the U.S., featuring a vibrant atmosphere ideal for game-watching, equipped with cutting-edge audiovisual technology. Renowned for hosting significant sporting events and gatherings, this venue exemplifies the blend of gaming and leisure expected at Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia.

The Prime Rib®

The Prime Rib® is known for its luxurious fine dining options, showcasing a menu that includes signature steaks and seafood delicacies. Highly rated and decorated with awards, this restaurant is set to become another focal point for visitors.

Luk Fu

This restaurant will provide a unique Pan-Asian dining experience with flavors from various Asian cuisines, ensuring guests enjoy authentic dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients.

Community Engagement and Future Opportunities

Live! Casino Virginia has already fostered over 600 permanent jobs in the area since its initial opening in January. With the upcoming full-scale casino, another 1,000 permanent jobs are expected to be created in diverse roles ranging from gaming and hotel management to kitchen and service staff.

To sustain and support local businesses further, a Local Contractor & Vendor Fair is scheduled for October 14, 2026, offering a platform for local suppliers to connect with the casino’s procurement teams.

Conclusion

The topping out of Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia marks a significant step not just in construction but also in the economic revitalization of Petersburg. It embodies a commitment to creating lasting impacts on the community through job creation, economic opportunities, and a heightened entertainment landscape. As anticipation builds for its grand opening in late 2027, the community, stakeholders, and partners eagerly look forward to the benefits this world-class destination will bring.

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