3 NYC casinos approved by N.Y. State Gaming Commission in final vote
The New York State Gaming Commission voted Monday to approve the three remaining New York City casino bids.
The casinos clearing the last hurdle are Steve Cohen's Metropolitan Park in Queens, Bally's Bronx, and Resorts World New York City at Aqueduct Racetrack, also in Queens.
"Today's vote by the New York State Gaming Commission is the culmination of a multi-year, community-driven process to ensure that casino licenses were only awarded to proposals that had local support, clear community benefits and sustainable economic plans," Gov. Kathy Hochul said Monday. "The three approved casinos will generate billions of dollars for the MTA and education, create tens of thousands of jobs and deliver real benefits to their surrounding communities. Each of the projects made significant commitments to their communities and to New York State, and the Gaming Commission was clear that they will hold these projects accountable and make sure they keep their promises. That is what New Yorkers expect and what they deserve."
The meeting was livestreamed on YouTube.
"Place your bets on Queens now"
"Jackpot. Today's decision by the New York State Gaming Commission is an undeniable affirmation that, in Metropolitan Park and Resorts World, Queens is the undisputed economic and cultural future of New York City," Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said. "This vote is much more than a technicality at the tail end of a bureaucratic process — it represents the dawn of a more financially secure future for tens of thousands of union workers and their families; the boosting of bottom lines for area street vendors and other small businesses; and the proof that tourists and locals alike will no longer need to leave Queens to enjoy elite entertainment.
"Place your bets on Queens now, because the history we made today will reverberate for generations to come," Richards added
The proposals were approved weeks ago by the state's Gaming Facility Location Board, clearing the way for construction once the full gaming licenses are issued.
Opponents cited pollution and other environmental concerns, and they are skeptical about the economic benefits.
Resorts World could start bringing in revenue as soon as the spring, while the other two casinos are expected to open in 2030.
Metropolitan Park
Metropolitan Park at Willets Point is backed by the New York Mets owner and hinges on the state awarding a full gaming license to Hard Rock.
"Since the day I bought the team, the community and Mets fans have made it clear to me that we can and should do better with the area around the ballpark," said New York Mets owner Steve Cohen. "Now, we are going to be able to deliver the sports and entertainment district that our fans have been asking for."
The casino would be built in the Citi Field parking lot, along with new green space, a renovated subway station, a community food hall and other amenities. The plan includes 25 acres of new public parks and is estimated to create 23,000 union jobs, backers said.
"Metropolitan Park will be a global destination for entertainment, food, and culture that reflects the energy and diversity of the World's Borough," said Jim Allen, Hard Rock International chairman. "The Commission's decision confirms the positive impact this project will have on New York City, the state, and the region, and we're excited to build on our long record of delivering world-class entertainment experiences here in Queens."
Bally's Bronx
Bally's Bronx in Throggs Neck is a proposed casino at Bally's Golf Links, a course adjacent to the Whitestone Bridge that Bally's acquired from the Trump Organization.
"Our team has worked closely with community leaders, union partners, and local stakeholders to build a project that delivers real jobs, lasting economic benefits, and a world-class entertainment destination for the Bronx. We are grateful for the Board's confidence and look forward to working with the Gaming Commission as the process moves to its next phase," Bally's Bronx said in a statement after the Dec. 1 vote.
Resorts World NYC at Aqueduct
Resorts World New York City at Aqueduct Racetrack in Queens is a proposed $5.5 billion expansion of the property's existing casino, with slot machines, table games, hotel rooms, a new arena and community greenspace.
"On behalf of the entire Resorts World team, I want to thank the Community Advisory Committee for recognizing the impact we will have not only on Queens but all of New York City and State," said Robert DeSalvio, president of Genting Americas East, after the Dec. 1 vote. "We are incredibly grateful to the large number of residents, partners, and supporters who touted this project, without a single person speaking against it. This is a testament to our mission – solidified over the last 15 years – to be the best neighbor possible here in Queens."