Public opinion appears divided on the construction of a Bally’s casino in the Bronx, based on evidence provided by a Community Advisory Committee (CAC) hearing.
The hearing included residents, union leaders, environmental advocates, and community organizers, and lasted two hours, during which arguments were made for and against the development, which has been estimated at $4 billion, if Bally’s secures one of the available licenses in New York.
Key Takeaways
- Bally’s $4 billion Bronx casino divides local opinion
- Mayor Eric Adams vetoed the City Council’s rejection of the development
- The Community Advisory Committee will hold additional hearings before a vote
Supporters emphasized job creation, community investment, and preservation of local institutions, while others noted Bally’s promises to fund a police substation and support Preston High School, potentially preserving critical community resources. Local nonprofits also cited potential benefits for youth programs, including investments in athletic facilities and park infrastructure.
Opponents, however, raised concerns about environmental impact, increased traffic, and social harm.
The potential loss of green space at Ferry Point Park was a particular concern, while other speakers flagged water and air pollution impacts, and of the risk of gambling-related financial hardships and crime resulting from the presence of a casino in the area.
The CAC is scheduled to hold at least one more public hearing before making its vote, which must be completed by Sept. 30.
Bally’s will need at least four out of six committee votes to advance to the New York Gaming Facility Location Board, which will review all approved bids and award up to three downstate New York casino licenses by the end of 2025.
Mayor Adams revives Bally’s bid
The reason why Bally’s bid is still alive is down to NYC Mayor Eric Adams, who vetoed the City Council’s rejection of a zoning change critical to the development. While a successful bid from Bally’s could result in a $115 million payout to the Trump Organization, which previously owned the site, Adams framed his action as an effort to ensure a fair and competitive licensing process.
Council members had previously voted overwhelmingly against the zoning change, with critics calling it a predatory development, although some Bronx officials support the project.
Adams, who has long advocated for bringing casinos to New York City, emphasized the potential economic benefits, including union jobs and broader community investment. Bally’s proposal involves a casino, a 500-room hotel, restaurants, and meeting spaces adjacent to the former Trump golf course near the Whitestone Bridge.
Bally’s reports strong second-quarter revenue
Even without the Bronx bid, Bally’s appears to be thriving based on the recent second-quarter revenue results. The company reported $657.5 million, a 5.8% increase year-on-year.
Casinos and Resorts revenue grew 14.7% to $393.3 million, while North America Interactive revenue rose 21.5% to $56.5 million. International Interactive revenue declined 10.2% due to the 2024 divestiture of its Asia business.
