Rivers Casino Portsmouth Celebrates One-Year As Virginia’s First Casino

PORTSMOUTH

Rivers Casino Portsmouth recently marked its first year on Victory Boulevard as Virginia’s first permanent casino.

With much fanfare, Rivers Casino Portsmouth opened its doors on January 23, 2023. The casino introduced a new industry to the region, creating 1,300 permanent jobs, with a focus on local hires.

With a $340 million investment, Rivers Casino Portsmouth has generated over $42 million in state and local taxes within its first year. Also, the casino has supported local Virginia businesses, vendors, and suppliers, contributing approximately $10 million annually in new local commerce.

On Saturday morning, January 20, the first year anniversary was observed with a historic Time Capsule Ceremony that featured remarks and time capsule presentations. Those participating were Roy Corby, general manager of Rivers Casino Portsmouth; Tim Drehkoff, chief executive officer of Rivers Casino Portsmouth and Rush Street Gaming; Senator L. Louise Lucas, President Pro Tempore, Senate of Virginia; Speaker Don Scott Jr., Virginia House of Delegates; Shannon Glover, Mayor of Portsmouth; Dr. Marcia Conston, President of Tidewater Community College (TCC); and Melissa Ramsey, director of community relations, Rivers Casino Portsmouth.

The sealed time capsule will be buried near the casino’s water feature until January 23, 2073. It encapsulates significant artifacts, including a groundbreaking shovel, ribbon-cutting scissors from the grand opening, and items highlighting the casino’s one-millionth and two-millionth customers.

Also, mementos from the casino’s first graduating class of table dealers made possible through its partnership with TCC.

Five decades hence, when the capsule is opened, future generations will also find relics that celebrate other “firsts” – the signed bill authorizing casino gaming in Virginia from Senator Lucas, Virginia Senate’s first woman and first African-American President Pro Tempore; and a gavel from Speaker Scott, Virginia’s first Black speaker of the House of Delegates.

“Virginia boasts a rich history of pioneering achievements, and Rivers Casino Portsmouth is proud to join such a prestigious roster as the first-ever permanent casino in Virginia,” said Roy Corby, general manager, Rivers Casino Portsmouth. “We were delighted to have such trailblazing leaders join us to commemorate this milestone, as we send a message to the future about the origin of our world-class entertainment destination.”

Portsmouth Mayor Shannon Glover closed the ceremony with a proclamation declaring Rivers Casino Portsmouth a strong economic engine, a proud community partner, and a great place to work.

The history-making moment, which concluded with a celebratory lunch, kicked off a series of anniversary events.