State Board Approves 3 NYC Casino Plans, Final Decision Due Year-End
The New York State Gaming Facility Location Board approved three proposals for new downstate casino licenses on December 1, 2025. The approved projects are led by Bally’s Corporation in The Bronx and Metropolitan Park in Queens. These projects will enter the final approval phase before construction can commence.
Overview of Approved Casino Projects
The Gaming Facility Location Board evaluated each proposal based on economic potential, job creation, diversity initiatives, and community impact. The state anticipates significant economic benefits, with an estimated $2 billion in revenue integrated into the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s budget through 2029.
Key Casino Projects
- Bally’s Corporation: Plans a 500,000-square-foot casino at Ferry Point, Throggs Neck, including:
- 500-room hotel
- 2,000-person event center
- 4,660 parking spaces
- Metropolitan Park: Will transform a 50-acre site near Citi Field into a resort featuring:
- 286,208 square feet of gaming space
- Entertainment venue
- Hotel and convention center
- Resorts World: Plans a major expansion of its existing facility, including:
- A 5.6 million-square-foot addition
- 6,000 slot machines and 800 gaming tables
- 7,000-seat arena and over 30 dining outlets
Financial Implications and Community Concerns
The gaming projects are expected to significantly contribute to local economies. Bally’s anticipates an economic output of $1.2 billion annually, generating approximately $370 million in tax revenue. Metropolitan Park projects revenues of $3.9 billion by its third year, with $850 million in taxes.
Despite the economic promises, community opposition has emerged, particularly against the Metropolitan Park project. Critics argue that the process lacked transparency and disregarded local input. Protests underscored concerns regarding potential gambling-related issues and impacts on local families.
Next Steps in the Licensing Process
The State Gaming Commission is tasked with issuing final casino licenses by December 31, 2025. This includes reviewing applicants for financial stability and commitment to community investments. Applicants must meet several criteria, including:
- Paying a $500 million application fee
- Securing a location for the casino
- Investing $500 million in local communities
Once approved, Bally’s and Metropolitan Park aim to open their facilities by 2030, while Resorts World plans to complete its expansion by 2026. The future of these projects could reshape the gaming landscape in New York City, bringing both economic opportunities and community challenges to the forefront.
