Hard Rock has disclosed a July 8, 2022, opening date for its temporary casino in the Virginian city of Bristol, after confirming that construction had commenced towards the close of 2021.
In what has previously been lauded as the group’s first “major milestone” in the area, the ‘Bristol Casino – Future Home of Hard Rock’ facility is intended to strengthen Hard Rock’s presence and commitment to Bristol.
“We are excited to open the casino, and welcome guests,” said Jon Lucas, Chief Operating Officer of Hard Rock International.
“As Virginia’s first casino, ‘Bristol Casino – Future Home of Hard Rock’ will be a wonderful addition to the Hard Rock global portfolio of dining, hotel and entertainment properties.
“I am pleased by the significant progress that Allie Evangelista and her team are making towards a July 8 grand opening celebration for Bristol.”
The temporary full-service casino will house an approximate 30,000 square feet of casino space, featuring in the region of 900 gaming slots, 20 tables and a sportsbook for a variety of gaming options.
Furthermore, the facility will also feature non-smoking and high limit gaming areas, alongside a restaurant, grab and go food outlet, and sports bar and lounge.
The non-permanent venue is expected to create 600 new jobs, and will also boast a store with branded merchandise and a display area showcasing the future Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Bristol that is currently under construction
“I cannot wait to open the doors on July 8 for our temporary casino in Bristol,” said Allie Evangelista, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol.
“We continue to hire new team members daily and are working hard to fill remaining positions with hiring events over the next couple of months, including two events next week.
“Visitors will be thrilled to enjoy fantastic gaming and dining opportunities at our new property. ‘Bristol Casino – Future Home of Hard Rock’ will be a major draw to Bristol, and the region, as we move towards completion of our full-scale resort and casino.”
Currently there are three other land-based casino developments proceeding in Virginia, those being across Norfolk, Portsmouth and Danville, the operating partners of which are Pamunkey Indian Tribe, Rush Street Gaming, and Caesars, respectively. Each was approved in local referenda in November 2020.
Earlier this month, a Circuit Court judge in the Virginian capital of Richmond gave the city’s revived casino proposal a huge shot in the arm, after granting permission for a second referendum to be held.
