Virginia Beach, Va. –According to Virginia Beach Councilman John Uhrin, a new, multi-story, one-of-a-kind entertainment complex could soon come to the resort city.
Officials say the complex will have a 2,500 seat Broadway theater a skating rink, bowling alley, eight motion picture theaters, a cabaret club and a children’s family forest with significant parking, all contained in over 360,000 square feet.
The centerpiece of the attraction will be the largest Ferris wheel on the East Coast with enclosed full conditioned cabins.
The city of Virginia Beach has been pursuing the old Dome site location at 19th and Pacific since the late 1980s.
“I’m delighted that we’ve reached a point where we can begin to execute a plan for the Dome site,” said Virginia Beach Mayor William D. Sessoms, Jr. “This project is extremely important to Virginia Beach and the region, both from an economic standpoint and for enhancing our quality of life.”
Six years ago, a research and development process was started for interest.
They selected LARC Entertainment, led by Michael Jenkins.
“I am excited to bring a unique, family-oriented entertainment center to Virginia Beach that can be enjoyed by citizens and visitors alike,” said LARC President Michael Jenkins.
LARC has been trying to come up with the money to develop the site and Tuesday he announced to city officials that he secured the money. They expect the project to cost $168 million.
The city says they will have more details on specifics in the coming weeks.
After a parking garage is built, the city will buy it back for about $37 million according to officials.
They may also have an economic development initiative grant to also help contribute.
