New York City is set to welcome three new casinos in its outer boroughs following a decisive vote on Monday.
In an expected move, the New York State Gaming Commission decided to grant licenses to the single Bronx and two Queens applications during a meeting at Riverbank State Park in Manhattan. The winners are Genting Group’s existing Resorts World racino in Jamaica, Mets owner Steve Cohen’s Metropolitan Park near Citi Field and Bally’s Bronx at the golf course in Ferry Point Park.
This landmark decision marks the end of an extended contest among several of New York’s influential figures competing for a coveted downstate casino license. The process, which has been fraught with debate and controversy, reached a critical point when the state’s Gaming Facility Location Board earlier this month approved three projects from an initial pool of eight contenders, narrowed down through evaluations by local panels.
Each of the approved applicants has made commitments to deliver substantial tax revenue, create thousands of jobs, and invest in infrastructure and community development. Regulators have emphasized that they will closely monitor these commitments.
“You have a significant responsibility ahead,” stated Brian O’Dwyer, the board’s chair. “This commission is committed to ensuring you fulfill your promises, and we will hold you accountable with great respect.”
O’Dwyer also mentioned that a monitor would provide quarterly updates to the panel regarding the casinos’ adherence to their promises over the next five years.
Governor Kathy Hochul commented on the vote, saying, “The New York State Gaming Commission’s decision is the result of a comprehensive, community-focused process designed to ensure casino licenses go to proposals with local backing, tangible community benefits, and robust economic plans.”
“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.”
Throughout the casino application process New Yorkers have expressed concerns about the potential consequences on public safety, health and infrastructure. Critics have pointed out that other casinos around the country have failed to deliver on their promises.
Metropolitan Park in particular has been met with considerable local pushback, and protesters shouted “Shame on you! Hochul must go!” and “We will see you in court!” after its approval Monday.
But that did little to dampen Cohen’s spirits.
“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,” the billionaire said in a statement. “Now, we are going to be able to deliver the sports and entertainment district that our fans have been asking for.”
The Bally’s project means a $115 million payout to the Trump Organization, which previously managed the Bronx site.
Resorts World was viewed as the easiest sell of the three given its established presence, and is expected to open as a full-fledged casino next spring.
“Resorts World New York City thanks the New York State Gaming Commission for today’s final approval,” said Robert DeSalvio, President of Genting Americas East. “We look forward to opening within months as New York City’s first full commercial casino.”
