The Virginia Racing Commission approved a gambling license Monday for Churchill Downs’ incoming gaming parlor on Staples Mill Road in Henrico County.
Commissioners unanimously voted to approve a pari-mutuel wagering license for The Roseshire, a betting brand under the Rosie’s Gaming Emporium umbrella. The Roseshire is projected to open with up to 175 historic horse racing terminals.
After the license approval, Jeremy Callahan, general manager of the Roseshire, said the gaming parlor will open Sept. 29.
Historic horse racing machines allow players to bet on undisclosed, previously run horse races. The Roseshire will also have remote betting on live horse races.
The company is promising a “sophisticated experience with a blend of luxury gaming and entertainment.”
Obtaining this license to operate a satellite facility for “pari-mutuel” wagering on historical horse races was one of the final regulatory hurdles ahead of opening its doors.
A previously vacant strip shopping center site is being renovated into a wagering facility, which will include a restaurant and bar space, as well as office and support areas.
Rosie’s recently started hiring for around 100 open positions at the venue, which is expected to generate $35 million-plus in revenue.
Local and state lawmakers pushed back against Rosie’s opening the Roseshire but were unsuccessful after a battle that went through the Virginia General Assembly and was ultimately vetoed by Gov. Glenn Youngkin.
Reports to the Virginia Racing Commission show that players bet around $3.1 billion at historic horse racing machines across Virginia through the first six months of 2025. Bettors won around $2.8 billion during that same timeframe.
A 150-machine betting parlor in Emporia reported $21.2 million in bets. The small city took in about $57,800 in tax revenue from those bets.
Rosie’s invested $5 million in Roseshire after receiving building permits in late 2024. The location’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority license is still pending.