Boyd Gaming Invests $1 Million in Norfolk State University as New Casino Resort Development Progresses

Boyd Gaming is fueling a transformative era for Norfolk, Virginia, by spearheading a massive $750 million investment dedicated to the construction of a premier casino resort along the picturesque Elizabeth River. To ensure the local workforce is prepared for this influx of luxury entertainment, the company has also donated $1 million to Norfolk State University to establish the Boyd Gaming Department of Tourism & Hospitality Management. This landmark casino resort project is poised to become a cornerstone of the region, expected to generate significant economic benefits including the creation of 850 permanent jobs and an estimated local economic impact of $2.9 billion over its first decade of operation.

Overview of the Casino Resort Project

• $750 million investment: This hefty investment will transform the Norfolk landscape by providing a modern entertainment hub.
• Job Creation: The construction and operation of the casino are expected to create approximately 850 permanent jobs, contributing to lower employment rates in the region.
• Tax Revenue: The casino is projected to generate substantial tax revenue, which can be reinvested into community services and infrastructure.
• Community Engagement: Boyd Gaming is committed to community partnerships and is especially focused on supporting local educational institutions.

Boyd Gaming’s involvement in the Norfolk project marks an exciting new chapter for the city, especially since the development was approved through a local referendum in November 2020. At that time, city voters expressed strong support for introducing a casino to the area, and the project is finally coming to fruition after several years of planning.

Partnership with Norfolk State University

The recent gift to NSU marks a crucial step in developing a mutually beneficial relationship between Boyd Gaming and the university. The company’s vice president, Ron Bailey, expressed pride in further strengthening ties by establishing this new academic department, which will focus on training students for careers in tourism and hospitality management.

“Since we broke ground on our Norfolk casino resort project last year, Boyd Gaming and the Pamunkey Tribe have been committed to building a mutually beneficial partnership with our neighbours at Norfolk State University… We look forward to working closely with our friends and partners at NSU in the years ahead as we build a best-in-class team and create exciting career opportunities for Norfolk State graduates at our resort.”

Educational Program

The newly established Boyd Gaming Department of Tourism & Hospitality Management aims to provide students with an exceptional educational experience, blending theoretical knowledge with practical experience to adequately prepare them for various management roles within the global hospitality sector. Currently, Norfolk State University’s program includes:

• Comprehensive coursework covering essential aspects of tourism and hospitality.
• Internship opportunities to gain real-world experience.
• Online accessibility to cater to a broader range of students.

Additional Benefits of the Casino Project

Aside from the educational contributions, Boyd Gaming’s Norfolk casino project is geared towards offering a vibrant entertainment centre that will feature:

• A luxurious 200-room hotel
• Eight diverse restaurants and bars
• State-of-the-art spa and fitness facilities
• Over 13,000 square feet of meeting space, catering to conferences and special events
• A 45,000-square-foot rooftop deck, providing stunning views and outdoor experiences
• A casino floor equipped with 1,500 slot machines, 50 live dealer table games, and a sportsbook

The average annual salary for employees at the resort will be nearly $69,000, surpassing the city’s median household income, which is approximately $64,000. Boyd Gaming is committed to providing hiring priorities for women, minorities, and veterans while supporting locally owned businesses for vendor requirements.

Community Investments

Boyd Gaming’s philanthropic efforts extend beyond NSU. The company has also directed $50,000 grants to Old Dominion University and Tidewater Community College to aid in training a skilled workforce ready to provide exceptional service to future casino guests. Bailey emphasized the importance of collaborating with local educational institutions to prepare workers for the services tested at Boyd Gaming’s new establishment.

Conclusion

The Boyd Gaming donation to Norfolk State University and the development of the Norfolk casino represents a significant commitment to the community’s future, fostering educational opportunities while driving economic growth. This partnership and investment promise a revitalised local economy and contribute to making Norfolk a prime destination for tourism and entertainment. Boyd Gaming’s robust approach in addressing community needs showcases a commitment to not just business success but also social responsibility.