Rivers Casino Portsmouth Elevates the Casino Gaming Experience with New Hotel and GM to Outpace Norfolk Competition

Experience the ultimate rush of excitement as we dive into the top highlights of the world of casino gaming, where every moment is designed to thrill.

• Rivers Casino Portsmouth is getting ready to defend its position in the Hampton Roads casino market.
• A temporary casino is set to open in nearby Norfolk.
• The casino is constructing its first on-site hotel.

Rivers Casino Portsmouth is bracing for impending competition as it prepares to lose its monopoly on casino gambling in Virginia’s Hampton Roads when The Interim Gaming Hall in Norfolk opens. This new establishment is slated to launch later this autumn.

In anticipation of this nearby competition, Rivers Casino Portsmouth, managed by Chicago’s Rush Street Gaming, has announced plans for a new lodging facility. Construction is currently underway for a 106-key hotel, The Landing Hotel, which will feature 32 luxury suites. Designed as an upscale hotel, this property will offer convenient accommodations for guests enjoying the casino’s offerings.

The Landing Hotel is part of Rush’s successful hotel brand, evidenced by its existing properties at Rivers Casino Pittsburgh and Rivers Casino Schenectady in New York.

Rivers Casino Portsmouth has proven to be a lucrative investment for Rush Street Gaming, generating an impressive 3 billion in gross gaming revenue in 2023, with expected growth to $309 million last year and continued increase this year.

Upcoming Norfolk Casino

Both Portsmouth and Norfolk were among five cities selected for casino development in Virginia, as per legislation from 2020. Each city received local ballot approval for their casino projects during the November 2020 elections.

Yet, Norfolk’s casino project faced multiple setbacks due to lawsuits, funding issues, and challenges relating to easements. However, Boyd Gaming took charge last year to breathe life into the Harbor Park project.

Now, construction is in progress on a $750 million resort that aims to feature a hotel with 200 rooms, rivaling Rivers Casino Portsmouth in size and facilities. Boyd plans to open a temporary casino adjacent to the Harbor Park baseball stadium by November.

Leadership Changes at Rivers Casino

Roy Corby, a respected figure in the gambling space, played a critical role in establishing Rivers Casino Portsmouth, overseeing its first two years. He later transitioned to work with the Koi Nation in California to assist in launching an integrated resort casino. Corby is now working with the Chickasaw Nation to acquire federal approval for the Shiloh Casino & Resort.

This week, Antonio Perez Jr. has been announced as Corby’s successor. His extensive background in hospitality and gaming operations, particularly from his previous role as general manager at Rolling Hills Casino Resort, makes him a robust addition to the Rivers team.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Antonio to our ever-growing family of destination casinos,” remarked Tim Drehkoff, CEO of Rush Street Gaming. “His extensive expertise in team development and guest engagement makes him an excellent choice to lead our Virginia property.”

Perez’s career commenced as a table game dealer and slot attendant in West Virginia, and he has developed a strong presence in various casinos across West Virginia, Maine, Missouri, and Mississippi.

Key Facts & Upcoming Attractions

• Location: Rivers Casino Portsmouth, Virginia
• First Casino Opened: January 2023
• Gross Gaming Revenue: 2023 – 3 billion, projected growth in upcoming years.
• Hotel Construction: The Landing Hotel, 106 rooms, opening in 2025.
• New General Manager: Antonio Perez Jr., experienced from Rolling Hills Casino Resort.
• Temporary Casino in Norfolk: Opening November 2025, adjacent to Harbor Park.

The competition between Rivers Casino Portsmouth and The Interim Gaming Hall in Norfolk promises to enhance the gaming offerings in Virginia, presenting more choices for patrons and further advancements in the local hospitality sector.

Summary: Rivers Casino Portsmouth is gearing up for competition from The Interim Gaming Hall in Norfolk by constructing The Landing Hotel and welcoming a new General Manager, Antonio Perez Jr. These developments signify the casino’s commitment to maintaining its leadership position in the Hampton Roads gaming market.