Source: Radio One / Radio One Digital
The Urban ONE Casino Project — you might also know it simply as “RVA Casino” or “ONE Casino” for short — has caused much conversation between supporters and naysayers alike since it first became a possibility for Richmonders back in 2021.
While voters initially chose against the casino’s construction in a close race of 39,824 “no” votes versus 37,999 “yes” votes, it now looks like the catchy chorus of Aaliyah’s number 1 hit “Try Again” will soon go into play down in VA now that the Virginia Lottery approved a preliminary application from Richmond and RVA Entertainment Holdings to put the proposal back on the city’s ballot this November.
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Although ONE Casino promises tiers of entertainment, premium lodging to promote tourism and employment in the Black community by a Black-owned media giant — shameless plug! — there’s still a good amount of locals who believe the multimedia haven could have negative results for Richmond, including increased traffic to the area and the overall promotion of gambling.
Take a look at what Mayor Levar Stoney had to say in response to the ballot approval for ONE Casino below, via NBC 12:
“I am excited to see the Virginia Lottery and the Richmond Circuit Court approve the referendum for a Richmond destination resort and entertainment venue that will provide 1,300 good-paying jobs and an estimated $30 million in annual revenue to tackle our community’s greatest needs. Richmond is experiencing record development and growth, and with the addition of a destination resort we will change the economic trajectory of Southside for years to come.”
In case you need a brief reminder of what ONE Casino is hoping to provide, see below for the shortlist:
- Luxury hotel with resort amenities, including pool, spa, fitness center, etc.
- Live entertainment and conference venues
- High-end dining
- Table games, slots, and a sportsbook
- 55-acre park and green space
