NYC Casino Licenses to Be Awarded Monday—Who Will Win?

UPDATE: The New York Gaming Facility Location Board is set to award up to three coveted downstate casino licenses during a critical meeting in Manhattan on December 1. This pivotal moment marks the culmination of a two-year campaign to introduce full casino gambling—including high-stakes table games like blackjack and roulette—to the New York City area.

As anticipation builds, three bidders remain in contention for these lucrative licenses, but it is not guaranteed that all will be awarded at this meeting. The board convenes at 10 a.m. at the CUNY Graduate Center Proshansky Auditorium, with the proceedings available for live streaming on YouTube.

Resorts World New York City is a leading contender, proposing a massive $5.5 billion investment at the Aqueduct Racetrack site in Queens. Their ambitious plan includes a sprawling 500,000 square-foot gaming floor featuring over 6,000 slot machines and 800 table games. Additionally, the project aims to create 2,000 hotel rooms and a 7,000-seat entertainment arena, significantly impacting local employment and tourism.

Another strong contender is the Metropolitan Park project, backed by Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock Casino. This proposal envisions a casino on a 50-acre parking lot next to Citi Field, offering 5,000 slot machines and 375 table games. A notable feature of this development is a planned 25-acre public park and a vibrant food hall that aims to enhance community engagement and local business.

The third bidder, Bally’s Casino, aims for a site in Throggs Neck, Bronx. Following the withdrawal of MGM Empire City from the race, Bally’s chances have improved significantly. Their proposal includes a 500,000 square-foot gaming floor with 3,500 slot machines and 250 table games. The development also plans for a 2,000-seat event center, retail spaces, and culinary venues, promising to revitalize the area and create job opportunities.

This meeting is a watershed moment for New York’s gambling landscape, with potential economic benefits for the local community. The board’s decisions will not only shape the future of casino gaming in the city but could also influence tourism and job creation in the region.

As the clock ticks down to the meeting, all eyes are on the New York Gaming Facility Location Board. Will they choose to unleash the potential of these developments, or will the licenses remain unawarded? Stay tuned for live updates and the latest news from this critical meeting.