Live! Casino Virginia to Open Temporary Venue in Petersburg on Jan. 22
Temporary gaming facility launches this week, marking a major milestone for Petersburg’s economic development and Virginia’s expanding casino market
Live! Casino Virginia is opening its doors in Petersburg this Thursday, marking the launch of the Commonwealth’s fifth operational casino and a significant step in the city’s long-term redevelopment plans. The temporary gaming facility, operated by the Cordish Companies, is welcoming the public ahead of a larger permanent resort currently under construction and scheduled for completion in 2027.
The opening follows final approval from the Virginia Lottery, which granted the casino its license last week. Located approximately 25 miles south of Richmond, Petersburg is positioning the project as a cornerstone of its economic revitalisation strategy after gaining casino development rights through legislative action and strong voter support.
The temporary Live! Casino Virginia facility spans 75,000 square feet, featuring 926 slot machines, 32 table games, and a dedicated high-roller room offering a high-limit gaming experience. Guests are also accessing free parking and on-site dining through Lucky’s Kitchen while the permanent resort takes shape. Once completed, the full development is set to expand to nearly 450,000 square feet, incorporating a hotel, multiple restaurants, and expanded entertainment amenities.
Beyond gaming, the casino is already generating a tangible economic impact for the city. The temporary facility has created approximately 500 jobs, including 180 live-table dealer positions. In addition, Live! Casino Virginia is rolling out a local partnerships programme that allows patrons to redeem vouchers at 15 Petersburg-area businesses, reinforcing the project’s connection to the surrounding community.
Financial contributions are forming a central part of the opening week. At the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, the casino is presenting the city with an upfront payment of $15 million. Over the first decade of operations, Petersburg officials are projecting approximately $240 million in cumulative revenue generated for the city, funds expected to support public services, infrastructure, and long-term development initiatives.
Live! Casino Virginia is joining an established portfolio of properties operated by Cordish’s Live! Casino brand, which includes locations in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Louisiana.The Petersburg opening also follows recent performance updates from Virginia’s existing casinos, with the state reporting more than $86.5 million in combined gaming revenue in December alone across its four active properties.
As Live! Casino Virginia begins operations, and state officials and city leaders are viewing the launch as more than a gaming expansion. For Petersburg, the opening represents a turning point combining job creation, tax revenue, and long-term investment, while for Virginia, it signals continued momentum in a tightly regulated and closely watched casino market.
