Pamunkey Tribe in Virginia Could Open State’s First Full Casino

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The Pamunkey Tribe, located in Virginia, recently completed the purchase of 610 acres of vacant land. This land is in New Kent County, just to the east of Richmond. It is believed that the tribe will be looking to build Virginia’s first casino resort.

Pamunkey Tribe planning Virginia's first casino

It looks like the Pamunkey tribe could be about to start building Virginia’s first casino. The tribe recently acquired 610 acres near Richmond

Pamunkey Buys 610 Acres, Could Be home to $700 million Resort

The land is a half an hour drive from Richmond and 45 minutes from Colonial Williamsburg, which is a very popular tourist destination. The Pamunkey tribe is one of just seven tribes in Virginia that are federally recognized. However, they are the only tribe that is permitted by the government to operate gambling establishments.

There are just 11 states in the USA that do not have a tribal or commercial casino. Virginia is currently one of them, but it is looking like this will change. The Pamunkey Tribe has stated it is determined to move forward with the construction of a casino. It recently announced that it wanted to build a $700 million resort with a spa, hotel, and concert venue.

Pamunkey Aims to Secure Class III Gaming License

The tribe believes that its casino could create 4000 full-time jobs and generate $1 billion a year. Under Federal Law, the tribe will be permitted to offer Class I and II gaming at its casino. However, if it wants to offer Class III gaming, it will need a compact with the state. Class III includes the likes of slot machines and table games.

The Pamunkey are determined to do whatever is necessary to get the Class III compact. Virginia has never been all that welcoming to gambling. However, earlier this month, legislation was signed that allowed for historic horse racing machines to be allowed at the Colonial Downs racetrack, as well as ten other locations. The tribe will no doubt be hoping that this signals a more open mind towards gambling. This will likely make it easier to get their hands on a Class III license.

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