Hard Rock International and the Bristol community are celebrating the groundbreaking of a long-anticipated permanent casino at 500 Gate City Highway. The commemorative shovel groundbreaking involved both Hard Rock representatives and local community leaders.
Hard Rock COO Jon Lucas commented: “From the very start, this property's economic and community impact has surpassed expectations, and we are thrilled to unveil what's coming next.
"We are especially grateful to our local partners, Jim McGlothlin and Clyde Stacy, whose vision has made all this possible. Building on our momentum, and with the incredible support from the Virginia Lottery and the Bristol community, we are ready to begin the next chapter."
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol will be approximately 300,000 square feet and feature 1,300 slots, 50 table games, a sportsbook, and various dining options including a signature Hard Rock Cafe and a restaurant called Council Oak Steaks and Seafood.
Also included in this new casino’s facilities will be a Constant Grind coffee shop, a Rock souvenir shop – with authentic music memorabilia – and a Hard Rock Live entertainment venue.
This project is expected to create 900-1,000 construction-specific jobs and will be managed by TN Ward and Berwil Construction. Once the permanent site has opened, it is expected to create over 1,200 full-time and part-time jobs for casino staff.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino President Allie Evangelista commented: “This is an exciting day for Bristol! Our temporary casino has been a tremendous success, and we already have welcomed guests from all 50 states.
“Our amazing team members – with their friendly smiles and can-do attitudes – are the foundation of this success. I cannot wait for the next step when we open the permanent casino in 2024 and have even more entertainment, dining, and music amenities to offer our customers."
Evangelista has previously appeared exclusively on the GA Huddle. You can watch her interview here.
