Petersburg, Virginia, is marking a transformative milestone with the official groundbreaking of the $1.4 billion Live! Casino Resort and Hotel. The project, which promises to bring substantial economic growth and job opportunities, is a result of persistent efforts by the city’s residents, developers, and local officials. The ceremony, which took place on March 19, 2025, signifies the commencement of a venture that has been in the making for years.

The groundbreaking marks the beginning of a massive, multi-phased construction effort set to unfold over the next several years. The casino resort will span 92 acres near the intersection of Wagner Road and Interstate 95. This strategic location, easily accessible from Richmond, is expected to drive tourism and economic activity in the region. The project is being co-developed by Bruce Smith Enterprise and The Cordish Companies, with support from city officials and state representatives.

Senator Lashrecse Aird (D-Petersburg) described the event as a pivotal moment in the city’s history. “There are moments in time where you know that one singular event will change the trajectories of a community, and today’s project is one of those projects, unquestionably,” Aird stated according to a press release, emphasizing the significance of this venture for Petersburg’s future.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

Once completed, the Live! Casino Resort will create an estimated $2.8 billion in economic benefits for Central Virginia, including approximately $504 million in tax revenue. Of that, $240 million will directly benefit the city of Petersburg, as reported by WWBT. The project is also expected to create around 7,500 jobs, including 6,100 during construction and 1,400 permanent positions once the resort opens. Local residents will receive hiring priority, ensuring the community is among the first to benefit from the new employment opportunities.

The development will feature over 450,000 square feet of gaming, hotel, and dining space, complemented by 75,000 square feet of meeting and convention areas. In addition, the resort will boast a 200-room hotel with 20 luxury suites, a resort pool, a fitness center, and a wide array of dining and entertainment options. More than 1,600 slot machines, 65 live-action table games, and a high-limit gaming area will also be part of the resort, which will serve as a world-class destination for both tourists and locals alike.

A Temporary Facility and Community Support

While the full resort is scheduled for completion in 2027, the city will not have to wait that long to experience the economic benefits of the project. A temporary gaming facility is set to open by the end of 2025. This interim location, similar to the one previously used in Danville, will feature 75,000 square feet of gaming space with 900 slot machines and 33 table games. This facility will immediately create approximately 500 jobs and start generating revenue for the city and local businesses.

As the project progresses, developers have committed to enhancing public services and infrastructure in the city. Petersburg Mayor Sam Parham highlighted the importance of the financial contributions from Cordish Gaming, which will help fund improvements such as new fire trucks, a fleet of police vehicles, and an elementary school.

A Bright Future for Petersburg

Petersburg residents overwhelmingly supported the casino project in a November 2024 referendum, with more than 80% of voters in favor of bringing the casino to the city. This strong backing reflects the community’s eagerness for the opportunities that the project will bring. The city’s history, once overlooked by travelers, is poised for a major transformation.

As Bruce Smith, founder of Bruce Smith Enterprise and a driving force behind the project, declared, “No longer will people drive past Petersburg; instead, they will make plans to drive to Petersburg.”

The groundbreaking event, attended by city officials, business leaders, and community members, marks the beginning of what promises to be a new era for the city of Petersburg. With the development of the Live! Casino Resort and Hotel, Petersburg is set to emerge as a vibrant hub of tourism, entertainment, and economic growth in Central Virginia.