What's happened
A New York state gaming board recommended three licenses for casino developments in NYC, including two in Queens and one in the Bronx. The licenses, pending final approval, will bring Las Vegas-style gambling to the city, with significant economic and community benefits expected.
What's behind the headline?
The approval of these licenses marks a significant shift in New York City's gambling landscape, shifting focus from high-profile Manhattan projects to more community-supported developments in Queens and the Bronx. The proposals, including Bally's on Ferry Point and Steve Cohen's in Queens, are designed to maximize economic benefits, such as job creation and tax revenue. However, the process reveals underlying tensions between economic ambitions and community opposition, especially in Manhattan. The final licensing decision by the state Gaming Commission will determine whether these projects materialize, but the clear trend is toward expanding gambling in the city, which will likely reshape local entertainment and economic dynamics. The involvement of prominent figures like Trump and Cohen underscores the high stakes and political interests intertwined with these developments.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that the New York Gaming Facility Location Board recommended three licenses, including Bally's $4 billion casino at Ferry Point and Resorts World's expansion into a full casino at Aqueduct. NY Post highlights the political support and opposition, noting Bally's deal to pay Trump $115 million if licensed. AP News emphasizes the economic potential, with licenses expected to generate billions in revenue. All sources agree that the licenses are pending final approval by the state Gaming Commission, which will decide by year's end, and that community benefits are a key part of the proposals. The coverage underscores the high-profile nature of the bids and the significant financial and political stakes involved.
How we got here
Since 2013, New York voters authorized up to seven casinos statewide, with three reserved for NYC. Upstate casinos opened earlier, but NYC has been waiting for licenses to develop full-scale gambling venues. The recent proposals include plans backed by high-profile figures and companies, aiming to boost local economies and generate tax revenue. The process faced community opposition, especially for projects in Manhattan, leading to a focus on Queens and the Bronx.
Go deeper
Common question
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What’s happening with New York’s new casino licenses?
New York is moving forward with plans to expand its casino industry, with the approval of three new Vegas-style casino licenses in Queens and the Bronx. This development has sparked curiosity about which companies are involved, how it will impact the local economy, and what the future holds for gambling in NYC. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about these exciting changes and what they mean for residents and visitors alike.
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New York is a state in the Northeastern United States. New York was one of the original thirteen colonies that formed the United States. With more than 19 million residents in 2019, it is the fourth-most-populous state.