Petersburg’s Live! Casino Virginia has officially opened with the launch of a temporary gaming facility developed by The Cordish Companies and Bruce Smith Enterprise. The $1.4 billion resort plan is expected to drive long-term economic activity, employment, and tourism in the area.
Located off I-95 at Exit 48B, the casino sits 25 miles south of Richmond and 45 miles north of the North Carolina border. The temporary facility features 75,000 square feet of gaming space, over 900 slot machines, more than 30 live-action table games, a signature bar, and a quick-service restaurant. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides more than 1,000 free parking spaces.
During the opening celebration, developers presented $15,050,000 to the City of Petersburg and local charities. The $15 million donation to the city forms part of a broader commitment from the developers, with future contributions to be overseen by a Community Advisory Board.
Funds are earmarked for services including childcare, elder care, affordable housing, education, and workforce development. An additional $50,000 raised during a charity test event on January 20 was split between Feed More and the John Randolph Foundation.
“The influence Live! Casino Virginia is already having on Petersburg cannot be overstated,” said Petersburg Mayor Samuel Parham. “This project is poised to redefine the Tri-Cities and help shape the long-term trajectory of our region.”
Bruce Smith, founder of Bruce Smith Enterprise, added: “Live! Casino Virginia will stand as a destination in its own right, and as someone deeply committed to this region and its people, I’m proud to help create opportunities that strengthen, inspire, and invest in the community for generations ahead.”
The facility has created more than 500 permanent jobs to date, including over 100 table games dealer positions. Recruitment remains open across gaming, security, hospitality, and other roles.
As part of its community engagement program, the casino launched the “Live! Change Maker” initiative, allowing guests to donate leftover change from winnings. The Virginia State University Foundation will be the first recipient, with proceeds collected through March 31, 2026.
Construction is ongoing on the permanent Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia, set to open in late 2027. The resort will include a 200-room hotel, expanded gaming floor with 1,600 slot machines and 60 table games, a poker room, sportsbook, and approximately 20 dining and entertainment venues.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2026/01/26/117295-temporary-live-casino-virginia-in-petersburg-opens-with-15-million-in-community-donations
