The proposal to build a casino across from Citi Field in Queens is gaining momentum as New York prepares to award three downstate licenses.
State Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal, who is firmly opposed to casinos in NYC, acknowledged that New York Mets owner Steve Cohen's Citi Field plan has "a very good shot" at approval, particularly after a legislative amendment that cleared the way for development on the site.
Key Takeaways
- Steve Cohen's plan to build a casino has a very good shot at approval
- State Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal opposes Manhattan-based casinos, citing more pressing issues
- Despite community opposition, supporters point to the significant revenues casinos would generate
Two of three licenses are widely expected to go to existing racinos at Yonkers Raceway and Aqueduct in Queens, leaving one license for new bids across the downstate region. Competitors include proposals for Coney Island, Times Square, Manhattan East Side, and Citi Field.
Hoylman-Sigal, the Democratic nominee for Manhattan borough president, opposes Manhattan-based casinos, citing risks such as crime, traffic, and addiction.
Despite community opposition, such as Broadway theaters rallying against a Times Square casino, supporters point to the significant revenue casinos could generate. Advocates say the projects could also help offset federal budget cuts without raising taxes.
Empire City Casino's $2.3 billion expansion proposal divides Yonkers residents
The proposed expansion of MGM's Empire City Casino in Yonkers has sparked mixed reactions from residents and officials. Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano voiced strong support, describing the project as "transformative redevelopment" that could boost the region with new dining, entertainment, and job opportunities.
MGM's $2.3 billion plan calls for renovating and enlarging the current gaming floor, building three full-service restaurants, adding a parking garage, and creating a 5,000-seat entertainment venue aimed at attracting major performances and events.
Opponents, however, expressed skepticism, noting that Yonkers' schools remain underfunded despite the presence of the existing casinos. The advisory committee is set to vote on advancing the project on Sept. 30, and the upcoming debate underscores broader concerns about whether casino expansion truly delivers on its promises.
Mayor Adams revives controversial Bronx casino bid with zoning veto
Mayor Eric Adams has revived Bally's $4 billion plan to build a casino on the site of a former Trump golf course in the Bronx, vetoing the City Council's rejection of a critical zoning change. The move creates a fresh momentum for Bally's as New York prepares to award up to three downstate casino licenses by year's end.
If approved, the Bally's project would trigger a $115 million payment to the Trump Organization, which previously operated the site.
Adams defended his veto as an effort to ensure a fair and competitive process among casino bidders, saying a casino would bring a good economic boost to NYC. Critics have questioned Adams' ties to Bally's, but the mayor insists his veto was about fairness, not favoritism.
