Petersburg Breaks Ground on $1.4 Billion Live! Casino Project

The groundbreaking for Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia took place in Petersburg on March 19, 2025, marking the start of a $1.4 billion project expected to generate significant economic growth and job creation. The development, spearheaded by Bruce Smith Enterprise and The Cordish Companies, aims to transform Petersburg into a major destination for tourism and entertainment, with plans to open a temporary gaming facility by late 2025 and the full resort by 2027. The project follows a failed casino proposal in neighboring Richmond, which paved the way for Petersburg's own referendum, ultimately supported by approximately 80% of local voters. Mayor Sam Parham highlighted that the casino will provide crucial funding for city improvements, including public safety and education, with an expected annual revenue of $15 million in the initial years. The casino is projected to create over 7,500 jobs in construction and permanent positions within its first decade. This development is seen as a vital step in revitalizing Petersburg, which has faced economic challenges for decades.