HeadWaters Resort & Casino Presentation Delayed to January 22

The much-anticipated HeadWaters Resort & Casino project in Norfolk, Virginia, has hit a delay as the Pamunkey Indian Tribe and their development team decided to push back the presentation of their latest plans to January 22. This unexpected move follows discussions with city council members and city staff regarding various project-related matters.

Jay Smith, a spokesperson for the casino, mentioned that the tribe and the developer had been in talks to address concerns and issues related to the project before proceeding with the Architectural Review Board presentation. However, specific details regarding these concerns were not disclosed. Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander expressed his lack of knowledge regarding any problems and directed inquiries to the developer.

The HeadWaters Resort & Casino project has faced its fair share of challenges since gaining approval for construction in 2020. Initially, plans for a temporary casino within Harbor Park were abandoned in 2022 due to non-compliance with voter referendum specifications. Subsequently, a two-phase plan was introduced in mid-2023 but faced opposition and was eventually withdrawn.

In December 2023, the project unveiled its latest blueprint, setting a 2025 start date for gaming activities while other components like the hotel and spa undergo construction. Notably, the once-proposed Elizabeth River marina has been removed from the updated plans.

The HeadWaters development, spanning 13.5 acres, is set to be purchased from the city for $10 million, with financing from gaming industry veteran Jon Yarbrough. The project's progress is dependent on approval from the Architectural Review Board, as it evaluates new construction projects on city-owned land. The project must be operational by November 2025, a deadline with financial implications for both the city and the tribe.