Norfolk's Big Plans: A Casino and More?

Norfolk is thinking big with a new waterfront casino. But it's not just about gambling. The city wants to turn this area into a hub for fun and nightlife. Sean Washington, who heads up economic development, sees a lot of potential. He points out that Norfolk already has a great baseball team and a fancy new casino. So, what's next? The city owns a lot of land around the casino and Harbor Park. Right now, it's mostly parking lots. But with the casino going up, some lots are closing. The city is pushing people to park downtown and take the light rail to games. This could free up space for something bigger and better. This idea comes after Norfolk cracked down on downtown nightclubs in 2022. There were some shootings, and the city revoked permits for several clubs. The new plan puts the entertainment district far from where people live. It's near a highway and train tracks, so noise and traffic won't bother residents. Norfolk wants to become a major city like Austin or Nashville. It's a big goal, but the city is taking steps to get there. The casino is a big part of this plan. It's set to open in 2027 with a hotel, spa, pools, and lots of food options. There will even be a huge parking garage. But there's competition. The Rivers Casino in Portsmouth is already making a lot of money. Still, Norfolk is betting on tourism to boost the local economy. In 2024, visitors spent over $1. 5 billion in the city. That's a lot of money flowing into Norfolk.