Latest plans for Petersburg Resort and Casino project revealed

PETERSBURG, Va. (WWBT)—A public town hall was held Sunday afternoon in Petersburg to reveal the latest plans to build a ‘destination resort and casino’ if legislators approve them. Bruce Smith Enterprises and his team of developers presented their ideas to the community through virtual renderings and videos.

“This is their opportunity to be part of the process to be included in some of the decision-making,” said Virginia Senator Lashrecse Aird.

Leaders in support of this project believe this will be positive for the people of Petersburg.

“This economic development project will offer revenues that the city has not seen in many, many years,” said Senator Aird.

Which some say is needed in Petersburg.

“I’ve lived in this area, and I’ve seen Petersburg deteriorate for the last several decades, and I think it’s time for a new beginning for them,” said Frank Adams, the chief of the Upper Mattaponi Indian Tribe.

The resort and casino are said to create more job opportunities and growth... but not everyone agrees.

“We do need jobs, but do we need casino jobs? Are casino jobs good jobs, are these career jobs?” questioned. Vannay Kirkland, a Petersburg resident.

Instead, Kirkland said she’d rather see the money go towards something more community-focused, like a community center.

“We have no community centers, that’s a thing that we could have built that could bring a lot of entertainment, a lot of community development. Then there’s the idea of shelters that we have none of,” Kirkland expressed.

Having a casino come to Petersburg is not set in stone; it won’t happen if lawmakers vote it down.

This will go to the General Assembly to be voted on without the reenactment clause on whether or not to move forward with the casino project, on Wednesday.