The New York Gaming Facility Location Board is set to award up to three full casino licenses during a meeting in Manhattan on December 1, 2023. This pivotal decision marks the culmination of a two-year campaign aimed at introducing full casino gambling, including popular table games like blackjack, craps, and roulette, to the New York City area. Although three bidders remain in contention for the licenses, it is not guaranteed that all will be awarded.
One prominent contender is Resorts World New York City, which currently operates a video gaming facility at the Aqueduct Racetrack in South Ozone Park, Queens. The company has proposed a substantial investment of $5.5 billion that includes the development of a new 500,000 square-foot gaming floor, featuring over 6,000 slot machines and 800 table games. In addition to the gaming facilities, the project plans to include 2,000 hotel rooms and a 7,000-seat entertainment arena on the Aqueduct site, which is expected to close for racing next year following the completion of the new Belmont Park racetrack.
Another strong competitor is the Metropolitan Park proposal, primarily backed by Steve Cohen, owner of the New York Mets, and Hard Rock Casino. This project aims to transform the 50-acre parking lot adjacent to Citi Field into a vibrant entertainment hub. The proposed casino would feature 5,000 slot machines, 375 table games, and 30 poker tables, alongside an 18,000 square-foot sportsbook. The development additionally promises to create a 25-acre public park, new retail spaces, and a Taste of Queens food hall.
The third active bid is the Bally’s Casino plan for Throggs Neck in the Bronx. Bally’s prospects improved following the withdrawal of MGM Empire City from the running last month. This proposal, which was revived by Mayor Eric Adams after initial zoning disapproval from the City Council, includes a 500,000 square-foot gaming floor with 3,500 slot machines and 250 table games, including poker. The plan also encompasses a 2,000-seat event center, restaurants, retail shops, a spa, and a food hall. If approved, it will be constructed at the site of the Bally’s Links Golf Casino, near Ferry Point Park, a golf course previously owned by President Donald Trump.
The board meeting will commence at 10 a.m. at the CUNY Graduate Center Proshansky Auditorium, located at 365 5th Ave. in Midtown Manhattan. For those unable to attend in person, the session will be streamed live on YouTube.
The decisions made during this meeting could significantly reshape the gaming landscape in New York City, bringing new entertainment options and potential economic benefits to the region. With millions of dollars in investments and thousands of jobs at stake, the ramifications of the board’s choices will be felt across the city and beyond.
