NORFOLK — A long-in-the-works gaming facility opened with little advance notice or fanfare Friday. But Norfolk’s temporary casino welcomed a steady stream of curious customers on its first day.

The Interim Gaming Hall opened at 10 a.m. Friday, a day after casino owners Boyd Gaming and the Pamunkey Indian Tribe announced the opening day . The facility’s opening comes five years after Norfolk voters approved a gambling referendum.

Virginia Beach resident Freddie Washington was among the first-day visitors who ventured out. He said the facility was much more convenient than driving to Rivers Casino in Portsmouth, noting the bridge-tunnel tolls.

“It’s nice in there,” Washington said about the 3,600-square-foot facility filled with 132 slot machines.

Patrons parked across the street fro

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