February 4, 2025

Casino Construction Spurs Transportation Overhaul in Norfolk

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News Summary

The construction of the Norfolk Casino has begun, leading to significant changes in local transportation and parking. Key updates include the permanent closure of Harbor Park Parking Lot D, a new Amtrak parking lot, and alterations to traffic patterns on I-64 and I-464, which are set to remain in effect until summer 2026. These developments aim to enhance infrastructure and accommodate increased activity from the anticipated influx of visitors once the casino opens in 2027.

Casino Construction Sparks Major Changes in Norfolk’s Transportation

Ground Has Broken, and So Have Traffic Patterns

Construction on the long-awaited Norfolk Casino is officially underway, bringing a flurry of changes to the local infrastructure and transportation services. With this ambitious project backed by the collaborative efforts of Boyd Gaming and the Pamunkey Indian Tribe, Norfolk aims to become a hub of entertainment and economic activity in the region.

Starting Monday, the Harbor Park Parking Lot D, which boasts approximately 783 parking spaces and represents about 32% of Harbor Park’s total capacity, will be permanently closed. This lot, located directly east of the stadium, is being sacrificed for the greater good of the casino’s development. In an effort to mitigate the impact on parking for Amtrak users, Lot E—a new designated area across from Park Ave.—will henceforth serve as the Amtrak parking lot with 103 allocated spaces.

Overflow Parking and Shuttle Services Introduced

To accommodate the increased demand for parking as construction progresses, Lot C, situated to the west of Harbor Park, will operate as an overflow parking option while also doubling as a cell phone lot. Spanning approximately half a mile from the Amtrak station, Lot C will facilitate a shuttle service set to transport passengers back and forth between Lots C and E for added convenience.

This shuttle service will run one hour prior to each train departure and for incoming passengers, ensuring that commuting remains manageable amid the construction chaos. Passengers are strongly advised to arrive early to avoid any delays linked to the ongoing construction factors impacting travel routes.

Major Traffic Shifts Ahead

As if this were not enough to shake up the status quo, the Virginia Department of Transportation is set to implement long-term traffic shifts on I-64 eastbound and I-464 northbound as of Monday. These shifts will remain in effect until summer 2026, significantly altering the landscape of transportation in the area.

For drivers trying to navigate these changes, it’s crucial to note that between February 10 and 17, the exit from I-64 east to I-464 north (exit 291A) will be closed nightly from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. The impetus behind these adjustments is tied to the ongoing Exit 291A Ramp Improvement Project, which is critical for managing increased traffic generated by the casino.

A Grand Vision Takes Shape

The casino construction represents a significant investment in Norfolk’s future, with estimates suggesting it will generate billions of dollars in economic activity for Norfolk and the greater Hampton Roads area. Plans for this vibrant venue include a sprawling 65,000-square-foot casino floor featuring 1,500 slot machines and 50 table games. Beyond gaming, the finished project will also comprise a 200-room hotel, eight diverse dining options, and a dedicated parking deck with 1,300 spaces to support the expected influx of visitors.

In the meantime, a temporary gaming space is projected to launch later this year, providing locals and tourists with a taste of what’s to come. The grand opening of the permanent casino is anticipated for late 2027, but fans of the Norfolk Tides can look forward to the opening day at Harbor Park, set for March 28, 2025.

Adapting to the Changes

As Norfolk Tides fans continue to flock to games—averaging 6,203 attendees per game in 2024, an 11.6% increase from the previous season—advisements to utilize city garages and the Tide light rail system for transportation to games have become more pertinent than ever. With Harbor Park’s seating capacity pegged at 12,067, the surge in game attendance emphasizes the necessity for improved transportation options.

Navigating through these significant changes will require patience and planning, but Norfolk’s transformation is set to result in a booming entertainment industry and an invigorated community spirit. As construction on the Norfolk Casino progresses, residents and visitors alike will undoubtedly feel the impacts of this ambitious project in various facets of their daily lives.