Supporters rally for new Virginia casino

Those in favour of a Hard Rock casino in Virginia are attempting to boost support ahead of the public referendum.

US.- Supporters of the proposed Hard Rock Bristol Casino and Resort in Bristol, southwest Virginia, have begun campaigning ahead of the public vote on the development.

Casinos were banned in Virginia until earlier this year, when lawmakers decided to allow five large casino resorts to be built in a a bid to boost the state’s economy.

According to the Bristol Herald Courier, a campaign group has sent mailers to city residents, placed signs in businesses and yards, bought advertising and announced a group of around 30 small businesses that support the project.

While the official deadline for residents to vote is November 3, Virginia’s new early voting law means polling stations will be taking votes from September 18.

If voters approve, Hard Rock hopes to submit its licence application to the Virginia Lottery Board in late 2020 or early 2021.

Meanwhile, voters on November 3 will also decide the fate of Caesars’ hopes to build a casino in Danville.