Bally’s proposal was one of three finalists under consideration by the city’s evaluation panel. The remaining finalists are Cordish’s Live! Casino & Hotel Richmond and Urban One’s One Casino + Resort.
Richmond residents must approve the preferred casino operator by referendum this November.
Bally’s had proposed to build a casino resort in the Stratford Heights neighborhood of Richmond but faced public protests from residents who said the facility would harm wildlife, add traffic and bring unwanted activity to the area.
According to local TV station WRIC, Richmond Department of Economic Development director Leonard Sledge said the Bally’s proposal was rejected “due to concerns about site access, environmental factors, and required approvals from non-city entities that may not be granted or extend the project timeline.”
The proposed Bally’s casino resort would cost approximately $650m to build and would cover over 60 acres.
Upon word of its rejected proposal, Bally’s said in a statement, “We are disappointed and surprised in the Evaluation Panel’s decision. We are the best operator to partner with the City on this endeavor and we provided the largest financial package with the most economic benefit to RVA residents and business owners. We were deeply committed to this project, as well as to becoming a responsible neighbor and member of the Richmond community. Should the City reconsider its decision we would be pleased to reengage.”
