Topgolf opens in Westwood, drives reinvestment in ‘Scott’s Addition 2.0’

Henrico County officials helped celebrate today’s opening of Topgolf’s first golf and entertainment venue in the region.

But the three-level, 55,000-square-foot, high-tech complex represents more than a new recreational and social option for residents.

Topgolf, at 2308 Westwood Ave., also marks the first major development project completed since the adoption of the Westwood Redevelopment Overlay District. The district is designed to help guide the future of about 530 acres, building on investments in the nearby Scott’s Addition neighborhood in Richmond.

The overlay district, approved by the Board of Supervisors in late 2018, encourages redevelopment in a way that accommodates a mix of residential, entertainment and other uses while protecting existing businesses.

“You are seeing Scott’s Addition 2.0 coming out of the ground,” County Manager John A. Vithoulkas said at the ribbon-cutting event, which also included Economic Development Authority Executive Director Anthony J. Romanello, Topgolf officials and other guests.

Topgolf’s entertainment venue rises on the western side of Interstate 195 and features climate-controlled hitting bays, an extensive food and drink menu as well as music and event spaces. The company pledged to invest at least $25.5 million and create 350 jobs as part of an agreement with the Henrico Economic Development Authority.

Vithoulkas credited Topgolf with bringing high-quality development and revitalization to Westwood. About a mile to the west, Kinsale Insurance is constructing a five-story, 146,600-square-foot headquarters building plus a four-level parking deck.

“We now have additional development that we’re seeing as a result of Topgolf,” Vithoulkas said, “and when you talk about a company like Topgolf, it’s not just the fun and entertainment. You know these folks … become invested in a community, and they give back so much. You are becoming part of something that is really great in this Richmond region.”

The Topgolf facility in Henrico is the company’s 57th worldwide and the first to feature a Topgolf Swing Suite, which offers a selection of virtual games, including golf, other sports and zombie dodgeball. Topgolf also plans to open a mini-golf course on the site.

“There’s no better time to be a part of the greater Richmond community and to contribute to the tremendous energy and momentum of the region,” Topgolf Chief Operating Officer Craig Kessler said. “Topgolf Richmond is about opening more than just an entertainment venue. It’s a commitment to the people of Richmond who are pushing the community forward.”