The years-long fight to bring casinos to New York City has taken yet another step forward, when the New York Gaming Facility Board recommended all three downstate proposals for the coveted state gaming licenses.
The board confirmed that Metropolitan Park in Queens, Resorts World New York City, and Bally’s Bronx should advance to the final review stage under the New York State Gaming Commission. The commission will now evaluate each applicant’s financial well-being, community engagement record, and ethical qualifications before issuing the official approvals on December 31st.
The decision was met with both excitement and protest. Community boards signed off on the proposals in their respective boroughs, yet a group of demonstrators interrupted the announcement meeting in Manhattan with cries of “shame on you” before leaving the venue. Board members continued to defend their vote, saying that tax revenue and economic uplift, including job creation, were central considerations that would stem from casino licensing.
Gov. Kathy Hochul praised the board’s work, saying the proposals “promise to unlock billions in funding for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and create tens of thousands of jobs.”
The applicants are now awaiting the final verdict from the Gaming Commission. While gambling enthusiasts wait with them, many are considering online alternatives in the meantime. Those exploring digital casino platforms can access the most trusted online casino, like Betwhale, CoinPoker, and Raging Bull Slots. These platforms offer regulated play while the land-based projects await the final phase of licensing.
Metropolitan Park is backed by Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock. It has been called one of the most transformative proposals submitted during the process. The plan would completely redo the wide parking zone around Citi Field and turn it into an entertainment district with a casino, hotels, a food hall, and new parkland. The development team said, “After years of community engagement and support, Metropolitan Park is one step closer to becoming a reality.” The team highlighted projections of 23,000 union jobs and over $1 billion in community benefits.
A spokesperson added that the proposal is the culmination of a decade of planning that aims to link Flushing Meadows Corona Park to Citi Field and the surrounding waterfront.
Resorts World wants to convert its existing racino at Aqueduct Racetrack into a full-scale casino and resort. This expansion will include thousands of new slot machines, hundreds of table games, hotel rooms, and an entertainment venue. Rober De Salvio, president of Genting Americas East, said the recommendation from the Location Board is the payoff after many years of investment. He said the project “represents more than 15 years of work to generate jobs, revenue, and opportunities for neighbors.” He also noted that the $7.5 billion proposal will see current operations expanded in just 90 days, which will contribute revenue for transit and education initiatives.
Bally’s Bronx is the third and final recommended site, planned near Ferry Point. The proposal includes a large casino, a hotel, various event spaces, and entertainment offerings that will draw tourists to the historically underserved area. Bally’s Chairman Soo Kim said, “I feel great, it’s not every day that you’re given a chance to have a physical impact on the city that you grew up in.” The company has committed millions of dollars toward community programs and pledged a portion of construction spending to Bronx-based firms.
The Gaming Commission must now evaluate whether each bidder can meet the minimum of $500 million in licensing fees and an additional minimum $500 million capital investment. Reviews will also include checks related to legal standing and responsible gaming plans. For example, Resort World drew concern after disclosing that its project relies on future operating cash flow and debt financing. These issues will be examined by the Commission.
Whether or not the Gaming Commission signs off on all three projects will be known soon enough, as the final licenses are expected to be issued on December 31.
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