Virginia Racing Commission Approves Henrico Roseshire Casino Project
Last Updated on 7 October 2025
The Virginia Racing Commission recently approved the Roseshire casino and hotel project in Henrico County. This is a major step forward for one of the state’s most talked-about gambling developments. The decision marks a major milestone for Virginia’s growing casino industry, which has been expanding over the past several years in cities like Portsmouth, Norfolk, and Bristol. Supporters of the Henrico project see it as an opportunity to create jobs, attract visitors, and increase state tax revenue.
Not everyone is pleased with the decision. Local residents have expressed concerns about traffic congestion and doubt that the future advantages will materialize as promised. Local businesses remain uncertain about the commercial impact that casinos generate for their operations. For Suffolk and other communities across Virginia, the Roseshire project is more than a local story. It could set the tone for future casino plans throughout the state.
Virginia’s Casino Growth
Virginia’s casino and sports betting industry has grown strongly through the first three quarters of 2025. In July 2025, casino revenue reached $84.7 million, which was almost 43% higher than the same period before. August 2025 kept the trend going, with revenue rising to $84.8 million, a 30.4% increase from last year. Slot machines and table games made up most of this growth.
The state’s gambling market continues to set new records, even though online casinos are not allowed. In other states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, online casinos bring in even more money because they have bigger and longer-running markets. Around the world, online casinos like the sites ranked on Valuewalk, show how players turn to digital gaming options such as slots, poker, and live dealer games. Virginia, however, has chosen to grow through land-based casinos, which makes the newly approved Roseshire project in Henrico an important step forward for the state.
Plans for the Roseshire Project
The Roseshire casino will be more than just a gambling floor. Developers plan a hotel, restaurants, and event spaces. The idea is to create a full destination where visitors can spend an entire weekend. They expect the project to create thousands of jobs during construction and hundreds of permanent positions once it opens.
The state will also collect tax revenue from the casino’s operations. Other Virginia cities with casinos, like Norfolk and Portsmouth, have already reported millions in new funds for local government. Henrico leaders hope Roseshire will deliver similar results.
Community Concerns
As with many big projects, not everyone agrees. Residents near the site raised worries about heavier traffic and more congestion on local roads. Some also fear that casinos can lead to gambling problems for certain people. Others argue that casinos pull money away from small local businesses instead of creating new spending.
These concerns have been voiced in other Virginia cities with casinos. Yet, the Commission moved forward, believing the Roseshire project meets all rules and could benefit the wider region.
How Suffolk Could Feel the Effects
Suffolk is more than an hour away from Henrico, but the impact of Roseshire could spread. Contractors from across the state may get work during construction. Hospitality and service businesses could also see new demand. On the other hand, Suffolk residents may choose to travel to Henrico for entertainment, which could pull spending out of their hometown.
Local officials will likely watch closely. They will want to see if Henrico’s project delivers steady revenue and jobs, or if challenges overshadow the benefits. That outcome could shape future debates in Suffolk if casino projects ever reach the area.
The Role of the Racing Commission
The Virginia Racing Commission once focused mainly on horse racing. But now it also regulates casinos. This has made the group more important in decisions that affect both local economies and the state budget. By approving Roseshire, the Commission showed it is ready to oversee major casino projects beyond racing.
The Commission’s choices will guide how Virginia’s gambling industry develops. If Roseshire does well, more projects could get approved. If problems arise, the Commission may face pressure to slow down or tighten rules.
Learning From Other Casinos
Other Virginia cities provide early examples. Portsmouth and Norfolk already have casinos, and Bristol has a temporary site while waiting for a permanent one. These places have reported strong revenue but also face challenges, like competition between venues.
Suffolk leaders may look at these cases to predict what could happen locally. If the projects bring steady jobs and tax revenue, support for casinos could grow. If problems outweigh the positives, resistance will likely strengthen.
Why It Matters for Virginia
Roseshire is not just another building project. It signals the state’s commitment to using casinos as a tool for economic growth and tourism. For supporters, it shows Virginia is serious about keeping pace with nearby states. For critics, it raises questions about whether casinos are the right way to build strong communities.
For Suffolk readers, this project matters because it will influence decisions statewide. If Henrico succeeds, the state could approve more casinos elsewhere. If it struggles, the debate over gambling’s place in Virginia could change direction.
The approval is only the beginning. Developers now need to secure financing, finalize permits, and start construction. Projects of this size often take years to finish, and delays can happen. Community members will watch to see if the jobs and revenue come as promised.
For Suffolk, the Henrico project offers a chance to learn. By watching what works and what does not, the city can prepare for future discussions about casinos closer to home.
Conclusion
The Virginia Racing Commission’s approval of the Roseshire project is a turning point for the state’s gambling industry. By keeping the focus on land-based casinos while blocking online gambling, Virginia is making a clear choice. The project could bring jobs, visitors, and new tax revenue, but it also raises concerns about traffic, spending, and social risks. The Roseshire project matters because its success or failure will shape debates across Virginia. What happens in Henrico will not stay in Henrico, it will influence how the entire state views casino development in the years to come.