On Wednesday, Hard Rock International and the Bristol community broke ground on the permanent casino in the state of Virginia.
“From the very start, this property’s economic and community impact has surpassed expectations, and we are thrilled to unveil what’s coming next,” said Jon Lucas, COO of Hard Rock International. “We are especially grateful to our local partners, 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 Virginia Lottery Board is the regulatory authority for casino gaming in the state. There is a graduated tax on casino revenue, requiring operators to pay 18 percent on their first $200 million, 23 percent on revenues between $200 million and $400 million, and 30 percent on any revenues of more than $400 million.
Only eight-tenths of one percent of the Gaming Proceeds Fund must be appropriated to the Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund.
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol, located at the former Bristol Mall, will be approximately 300,000 square feet featuring 1,300 slots, 50 table games, and a sportsbook. The property is expected to open in the spring of 2024.
The project is also expected to create approximately 900-1,000 construction-specific jobs and will be managed by TN Ward and Berwil Construction. Over 1,200 full-time and part-time jobs are anticipated at the casino.
“This is an exciting day for Bristol,” said Allie Evangelista, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino 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.”
The site is currently home to a so-called temporary casino. The facility has 30,000 square feet of casino space and features 870 slots, 21 tables and a sportsbook.
