The fierce competition for New York’s coveted downstate casino licenses has reached a pivotal stage, with four contenders emerging from the pack. Notable proposals from Queens, the Bronx, and Yonkers have advanced to the final round following a decisive series of community advisory panel votes. This development comes on the heels of the elimination of several high-profile Manhattan projects and a plan for Coney Island earlier this week.
In the spotlight is the ambitious $8 billion “Metropolitan Park” proposal spearheaded by Mets owner Steve Cohen. Approved unanimously in a local review on September 30, this venture is being developed in partnership with Hard Rock International. It envisions transforming 50 acres of parking space adjacent to Citi Field into a sprawling entertainment hub. The plan includes not only a state-of-the-art casino but also a 25-acre public park, a 5,600-seat performance venue, significant upgrades to the Willets Point subway station, and the construction of hundreds of affordable housing units in the Corona neighborhood. Advocates for the project assert that it could generate $850 million annually in taxes by its third year, underscoring its potential impact on the local economy and community.
Meanwhile, the Resorts World expansion in Jamaica, Queens, is another formidable contender, having received full support for its $5.5 billion development plan last week. Currently operating as a “racino” at the Aqueduct Racetrack, Resorts World aims to secure one of the full casino licenses. The proposed enhancements include adding table games, a 7,000-seat theater, and a sports and media school in collaboration with NBA champion Kenny Smith. Proponents highlight the job creation potential of this project, with Queens native Nas lending his voice to advocate for its benefits to working families in the area.
In the Bronx, Bally’s is advancing with a bold $4 billion proposal for the Ferry Point golf course site. The plan envisions a comprehensive complex featuring a casino, a 500-room hotel, retail spaces, a spa, and an event center. The project faced a significant hurdle when the City Council rejected its land-use application. However, it was given new life after Mayor Eric Adams exercised his veto power to override the decision. Observers have noted Bally’s influential connections within city hall and a financial arrangement with the Trump Organization, which stands to gain substantially if the site is selected.
Rounding out the final four is MGM’s Empire City Casino in Yonkers, which already operates as a racino, providing it a strategic advantage. Industry experts consider it a strong candidate to secure one of the three licenses due to its existing customer base and consistent revenue stream. With Manhattan’s proposals all dismissed, attention is now squarely on Albany, where the New York State Gaming Commission is expected to announce its final decisions by the end of the year.
The stakes are high as these projects vie for approval, each offering unique contributions to the landscape and economy of downstate New York. Supporters of the Metropolitan Park project emphasize its transformative potential for the Citi Field area, envisioning it as a beacon of entertainment and economic growth. They point to the project’s comprehensive nature, blending leisure, residential, and transportation improvements, as a model for future urban development.
Conversely, critics of the project caution against potential disruptions to the community, citing concerns over increased traffic and the environmental impact of large-scale construction. They urge careful consideration of the long-term implications for surrounding neighborhoods, advocating for a balanced approach that prioritizes sustainable growth.
Resorts World’s proposed expansion is lauded for its job creation promise and cultural contributions, particularly with the involvement of prominent figures like Nas and Kenny Smith. However, some question the impact on local businesses and whether the influx of tourists might strain existing infrastructure.
Bally’s proposal for the Bronx offers a vision of economic revitalization through tourism and hospitality, with proponents arguing it could serve as a catalyst for broader development in the area. Skeptics, however, raise issues about the reliance on political maneuvers to advance the project and potential conflicts of interest given the financial ties to the Trump Organization.
MGM’s established presence in Yonkers positions it as a frontrunner, leveraging its operational experience to transition seamlessly into a full-scale casino. Supporters tout its economic stability and ability to enhance the region’s entertainment offerings. Opponents, however, warn that further expansion could lead to market saturation, questioning whether additional facilities are necessary in an already competitive environment.
As the decision looms, the outcome of this high-stakes race will shape the future of gambling and entertainment in New York. Each proposal brings distinct opportunities and challenges, reflecting the diverse visions for growth and prosperity in the state. With the New York State Gaming Commission set to make its final determinations by year-end, the anticipation continues to build, promising significant developments in the months ahead.
David Harrison stands tall in gambling journalism, marrying his firsthand casino experiences with a deep understanding of betting psychology. His articles transform complex gambling jargon into engaging tales of strategy and chance, making the world of betting accessible and enjoyable. David’s knack for narrative extends beyond print, making him a sought-after speaker on gambling trends and future bets. In the realm of gambling, David is both a scholar and a storyteller, captivating readers and listeners alike.
