Tysons Casino Project Bill Returns to Virginia Lawmakers

Virginia lawmakers are revisiting the Tysons casino project, which could potentially double Tysons’ annual tax revenue.

Developers Continue Advocating for Tysons Casino
Developer Comstock proposed the Tysons casino project, aiming to bring gambling, entertainment, and hospitality to Fairfax County. Opponents of the project spent nearly $1 million to challenge it, but supporters outpaced them by spending $2 million.

Lawmakers Propose New Bill for Fairfax County Casino
Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell introduced Senate Bill 982 (SB 982) to add Fairfax County to the state’s list of eligible casino jurisdictions. Filed this week, SB 982 outlines specific conditions for the casino, such as its proximity to the Metro Silver Line, a regional mall with at least 1.5 million square feet, and its location outside the Interstate 495 Beltway. The project also requires a mixed-use development covering at least 1.5 million square feet.

Economic Benefits Drive Tysons Casino Proposal
Christopher Clemente, Comstock’s CEO, emphasized the potential economic benefits of the project. Clemente stated that Tysons currently generates $250 million in annual tax revenue, which could double with the casino. Clemente added that the project would boost community and county benefits without relying on public funding and would bring much-needed nightlife to Tysons.

Surovell highlighted Virginia’s $300 million annual loss as residents gamble at MGM National Harbor in Maryland. He expressed hope that the proposed casino would recapture that revenue to fund schools in Fairfax County and Virginia.

Local unions support the project, citing job creation and revitalization of Fairfax County. However, the proposal still requires state legislative approval, the governor’s signature, and a referendum vote.