In August, Governor Glenn Youngkin announced the decision of RBW Sports & Classics to invest $8 million to establish a manufacturing facility for hand-built electric classic sports cars at Cane Creek Centre. This move— the United Kingdom-based company’s first venture in the United States—not only will create 144 jobs but it also further cements the region’s status as a magnet for investment and cutting-edge technology.
The announcement of RBW’s arrival was the latest in a wave of economic development that has been seven years in the making, with Danville and Pittsylvania County announcing a staggering 4,516 new jobs and over $1.5 billion in capital investment during that time.
From hand-built electric sports cars to world-class entertainment, Danville and Pittsylvania County are emerging as key destinations for both business and leisure thanks to targeted investments, infrastructure upgrades, and strategic partnerships.
Building for the future
Key to the region’s economic success has been a strong focus on workforce development. Collaborations between local businesses, educational institutions, and government agencies are building a pipeline of skilled workers ready to meet the demands of new industries.
Meanwhile, Danville and Pittsylvania County leaders and their many partners continue to develop multiple industrial parks. In October, the City of Danville was awarded a $2.33 million grant by the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission to establish an 80-acre graded pad at the Coleman Site, located on Gypsum Road. This new graded pad will ensure site-readiness, streamlining the construction process and accelerating development timelines for large-scale industrial and manufacturing clients.
The grant was preceded by another grant announcement in August, when the City of Danville was awarded a $9 million Virginia Business Ready Sites Program Grant by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. The money will be used toward site planning and engineering at the Coleman Site, which is a 158-acre industrial site owned by the Industrial Development Authority of Danville
In addition to the Coleman site, the Southern Virginia Megasite at Berry Hill remains a critical asset, attracting interest from large-scale manufacturers seeking access to well-prepared land and infrastructure. Continuous improvements to this site position it as a key player in the region’s future industrial expansion.
A major pillar of economic growth
One of the most anticipated milestones is the grand opening of Caesars Virginia, a luxurious casino resort set to become a major draw for tourism and entertainment. Scheduled to open by year’s end, this massive project is expected to attract visitors from across the region and beyond, offering not just gaming but also fine dining, live shows, and high-end accommodations.
Most recently, it was announced multi-Michelin-starred chef and television personality Gordon Ramsay will open Ramsay’s Kitchen at Caesars Virginia. It will be Ramsay’s first Virginia restaurant, and it will offer signature dishes such as beef Wellington, crispy skin salmon, pan-seared scallops and a 24-ounce bone-in ribeye.
Caesars Virginia, which currently operates a temporary gambling facility in Schoolfield under the name Danville Casino, has nearly 500 employees so far. The company will hire close to 500 more workers as it gets closer to opening the full casino and hotel resort
The temporary facility is drawing more than 100,000 visitors a month. That number will grow with the opening of the full resort. With that, Caesars Virginia promises to be a game-changer for the local economy, not only creating hundreds of jobs but spurring further investment in the area.
Tourism on the rise: A 49% increase in economic impact
Tourism has also emerged as a key driver of Danville and Pittsylvania County’s economic growth. A recent report by the Virginia Tourism Corporation revealed that the region saw a 49.39% increase in the economic impact of short-term visitation year-over-year. This growth has been fueled by a combination of the casino operations and enhanced marketing efforts of local attractions and activities.
City officials have worked closely with regional tourism organizations to market the area’s unique appeal. From scenic drives along the Dan River to exploring the region’s historic sites, Danville and Pittsylvania County offer a blend of adventure and heritage that continues to attract more visitors each year.
Also, with new restaurants, shops, and cultural activities, the River District is quickly becoming a must-see destination for visitors. The influx of tourists has also brought more business to local establishments, contributing to the overall economic vitality of the area.
A bright future ahead
As 2024 draws to a close, the momentum in Danville and Pittsylvania County shows no signs of slowing. With the imminent opening of Caesars Virginia, a track record of attracting business investment from companies such as the RBW Sports & Classics, and the rise in tourism, the region’s economic outlook is brighter than ever.
Investments in workforce development and infrastructure ensure that the area will remain a competitive destination for businesses while offering a high quality of life for its residents. Looking forward, community leaders are focused on maintaining this momentum and ensuring that all residents benefit from the opportunities on the horizon.