Rosie’s-Colonial Downs opens for business
Photo by Nick Hahn.
At a ceremonial ribbon cutting, Colonial Downs Group announced today that Rosie’s Gaming Emporium is now open in New Kent County, Va. Rosie’s features 600 historical horse racing (HHR) machines, simulcast horse racing, restaurant and bar, and gift shop.
Aaron Gomes, chief operating office of Colonial Downs Group, stated, “We are thrilled that Rosie’s is now open for business in New Kent County. Today marks an enormous economic development milestone for New Kent, the region and the entire Commonwealth that has brought together gaming enthusiasts, horse lovers and the community to experience an exciting and fun activity.”
The revenues generated through HHR machines will enable the return of live thoroughbred horse racing to Virginia. The first day of live racing at the Colonial Downs track is scheduled for August 8. The Virginia Oaks & Virginia Derby will both return on August 31.
John Marshall, senior vice president and general manager of Colonial Downs Group, added, “Rosie’s is critical to the rebirth and revitalization of horse racing and the equine industry in Virginia. We are proud to have already invested $175 million to reestablish the Colonial Downs track, including resurfacing the turf track, as well as bring HHR to Virginia through the new Rosie’s. We could not be more excited that live thoroughbred horse racing is just months away.”
Rosie’s in New Kent will be open weekdays 8 am to 2 am, and weekends 8 am to 4 am.
In addition to New Kent, Rosie’s will open in Vinton in May, South Richmond in June, Hampton in early fall 2019 and other locations to follow. The company estimates that Rosie’s will generate $25 million in state taxes annually and create 800 jobs statewide.
