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A proposed Tysons casino faces broad opposition from Fairfax County supervisors, even as two potential locations emerge and some board members remain open to letting voters decide.
The legislation, now awaiting action by Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger, would authorize a Fairfax County referendum on the project. Spanberger has until the end of April 13 to sign, amend or veto bills sent to her during the 2026 General Assembly session. A spokeswoman said the governor is reviewing the legislation.
One possible site is near the Spring Hill Metro station, where labor leaders gathered Wednesday to call on Spanberger to sign the bill. Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell said another eligible location is the parking lot near Tysons Galleria that commonly hosts Cirque du Soleil.
The two properties are controlled by different developers, Surovell said, pushing back against criticism that the legislation was designed to benefit an already identified developer. He added that others could assemble qualifying parcels and propose their own projects.
Under the bill, the casino would be part of a 1.5 million-square-foot mixed-use development featuring a convention center and entertainment complex. Supporters have emphasized its potential to generate revenue and attract a major development to Fairfax County. Critics have raised concerns about traffic, public safety and whether the project is needed.
“Arlington got Amazon,” Surovell said, arguing that Fairfax has not landed a comparable project in a decade.
Most supervisors remain opposed
Before the General Assembly session, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors voted against adding the Tysons casino proposal to its legislative priorities. Surovell has since argued that board members hold varying levels of support, but responses from supervisors show that most remain firmly opposed.
Board Chairman Jeff McKay called the current bill too flawed to repair and said he has asked Spanberger to veto it. He cited strong community opposition and objected to a revenue split that would send 70% to the state and 30% to Fairfax County.
Dranesville District Supervisor Jimmy Bierman dismissed the proposal with a reference to the movie “Mean Girls,” saying efforts to make the casino happen should stop. Providence District Supervisor Dalia Palchik also urged a veto, while Sully District Supervisor and Vice Chair Kathy Smith reiterated that she does not favor a casino.
Franconia District Supervisor Rodney Lusk said he would not support a Tysons casino under any conditions. He argued that it could undermine the county’s long-term plan for Tysons, weaken efforts to expand the tax base and hurt business recruitment. However, Lusk said he supports giving Fairfax County voters the option to decide the issue through a referendum.
Braddock District Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer said the proposal does not make sense for Fairfax County and expressed doubt that voters would approve it. She said she did not encounter a single constituent asking for a casino while campaigning and remains troubled by provisions in the bill.
Hunter Mill District Supervisor Walter Alcorn said he opposes spending county money on a referendum involving a Tysons casino.
Herrity sets conditions for possible support
Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity said he has not reached a final decision and would consider a casino only if the plan included a voter referendum, a needed conference center, an entertainment center, a gaming commission and respect for the county’s zoning process.
Mason District Supervisor Andres Jimenez declined to comment through a spokesperson. Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan Storck did not respond.