City infrastructure improvements and traffic considerations are vital to any discussion regarding a new destination development like a casino. As one of the oldest cities in the Commonwealth, Winchester faces aging roadway infrastructure. Unlike counties, independent cities are solely responsible for financing the maintenance and upkeep of local roads by State Code. Any decision regarding Winchester's roadway infrastructure investments comes solely from City Council's prioritization and is financed from local tax revenues.
Traffic concerns are not unique to casinos, rather, any large development (apartments, grocery store, entertainment center, etc.) will impact traffic in Winchester. The concern lies in Winchester City Council's ability to plan for and finance the necessary infrastructure upgrades to support any new development in Winchester.
Casinos in Virginia operate twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. Compared to destination developments with limited or event specific hours (standalone concert venues, sports stadiums, etc.) expected traffic impacts are spread over the course of the entire day, not just when events are occurring.
Developers of major developments are required to bring roadways in and around prospective developments up to Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) standards. Often, these needs are identified through traffic impact studies prior to development.
The benefit of a development like a casino, compared to traditional developments, is that the expected surplus local tax revenue generated could finance roadway improvements, not just around the proposed development area, but Citywide without increasing taxes on citizens.
Last updated 12/16/25