Ground has been broken at the site of Portsmouth, Virginia’s newest casino, the Rush Street Gaming-operated Rivers Casino Portsmouth. A groundbreaking ceremony yesterday celebrated the inauguration of the new project.
The casino – which will sit at Victory Boulevard and Freedom Avenue – is a $300m project that will first bring 1,400 construction jobs to the area, followed by 1,300 permanent jobs. It is due to bring in $16.3 million in tax revenue for the city.
It is expected to be completed in early 2023 and will include a casino, a BetRivers Sportsbook, restaurants, live entertainment, a hotel and an event center.
Shannon Glover, Mayor of Portsmouth, attended the groundbreaking ceremony and welcomed the arrival of the new multi-purpose venue: “This is truly and exciting time for the citizens of Portsmouth – particularly as it relates to job growth and the overall economic vitality of our great city.
“We are pleased to also create new business opportunities and introduce an entirely new industry to Portsmouth. We remain confident that this project will enhance the vibrancy of our community.”
It is a milestone for Rush Street Gaming, as well. Rivers Casino Portsmouth is the group’s seventh casino development, following locations in New York, Illinois and Pennsylvania.
Rush Street’s CEO, who was also at the ceremony, struck an upbeat note regarding the project and what it will bring to the community and the company: “Today marks a significant milestone for Rush Street Gaming and the Commonwealth of Virginia. We’re excited to expand our Rivers Casino brand family and help launch the state’s casino industry right here in the City of Portsmouth.”
