The Pamunkey Indian Tribe has announced that its planned facility to be located in the Virginian city of Norfolk will be named as HeadWaters Resort & Casino.
The Tribe, which won approval after a majority of residents voted in favour of the project in November 2020, says that the name ‘HeadWaters’ represents the beginning of a new chapter in the life of the Pamunkey Tribe and Norfolk. The name is also a nod to the importance that rivers have played in the Tribe’s and the city’s history.
“Excitement is building and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the name,” noted Robert Gray, chief of the Pamunkey Indian Tribe. “There’s just something about having a name that makes it feel more real. I’m confident that HeadWaters Resort & Casino will exceed even the highest of expectations and will make Norfolk proud.”
This development follows the release of new rendering of the $500m resort which aims to “take advantage of the beauty of the Elizabeth River”.
Amenities to be featured as part of the venue include more than 300 rooms, a gaming floor, rooftop bar, waterside infinity pool, luxury spa, sports bar and grill, steakhouse, multi-purpose event centre and a rooftop outdoor event space.
The attached parking deck will accommodate approximately 2,000 vehicles, with additional off-site parking and guests arriving by Amtrak will enjoy easy access to the resort.
The project aims to redefine the waterfront by developing the HeadWaters Marina, which will enable guests to travel by boat to enjoy the resort and casino, or to dock while taking the family to a baseball game next door.
As part of the waterfront design the Pamunkey Indian Tribe will be committing more than $20m to shoreline resiliency issues and creating a vibrant, sustainable living space that aims to improve the environment along the Elizabeth River, as well providing an exciting new natural area for residents and visitors to enjoy.
In addition, the Tribe will be committing significant funds for additional Elizabeth River Trail construction, rehabilitation, and connectivity.
Once the Virginia Lottery approves the Tribe’s casino operator license application, construction on the facility will commence immediately. The initial phase of the project is expected to be completed in 2023.
