Tysons casino proposal passes in Virginia Senate

TYSONS, Va. - A controversial casino in Tyson's is one step closer to becoming reality after the Virginia Senate approved the proposal on Tuesday.    

Virginia Senate approves Tysons casino proposal

The Virginia Senate passed the bill Tuesday with a vote of 24 to 16. If it becomes law, it would allow Fairfax County voters to decide whether to move forward with what’s being called the Tysons Entertainment District.

Supporters say the project could bring in hundreds of millions of dollars in new tax revenue for Fairfax County and more than a billion dollars for the state. 

Features of the proposed entertainment district

The legislation would allow for a Las Vegas-style casino and entertainment district right here near Tysons Corner Center mall. The proposal includes a casino, multiple hotels, restaurants, a 6,000 seat concert venue, a 5,000-person conference center, an IMAX theater, and residential units. 

Opponents fear it could increase crime and traffic. The No Fairfax Casino Coalition warns that a casino would disrupt the community, while other leaders say it disregards local concerns and is "economic development in reverse".

Next steps in the legislative process

A similar bill introduced last year failed, but this time it has backing from union workers and other organizations. The bill now heads to the House of Delegates. If approved and signed by Governor Glenn Youngkin, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors will decide whether to put it on the ballot for voters.