Comstock's Casino Push in Fairfax County Gains Momentum

Comstock Holding Companies Inc. is leaving no stone unturned in its pursuit of a casino project in Fairfax County, Virginia. The developer has taken strategic steps to increase its chances of success in the upcoming Virginia General Assembly session scheduled for January 10, 2024.

One of the key moves by Comstock involves the hiring of six lobbyists who will advocate for the casino project. These lobbyists will focus exclusively on defending Comstock's interests during the legislative session. The company's determination to build in the Wiehle-Reston East Metro Station area is evident, and it has not shied away from investing in political support.

Comstock has donated over $500,000 to various political candidates, including contributions to the Building a Remarkable Virginia Political Action Committee and Del. Wren Williams's political campaign. Williams had been working on a bill related to a casino referendum before receiving donations from Comstock.

While Comstock's donations aim to align political interests with its casino plans, the final decision ultimately rests with the voters of Fairfax County. The proposed bills would grant the public the right to determine the fate of the casino project. Comstock has already presented detailed plans for the Reston casino, but the company faces a long road ahead, both legislatively and at the ballot box.

In the broader context of Virginia's casino expansion, Comstock's efforts in Fairfax County join similar initiatives in Bristol, Portsmouth, Danville, Norfolk, and Richmond. The fate of a casino in Fairfax County will be decided by the local residents, with Comstock making a concerted effort to navigate the complex political landscape.