More rejections and approvals are narrowing the field of possible contenders for a license
The competition for New York’s downstate casino licenses has narrowed, with Metropolitan Park in Queens securing unanimous approval from its Community Advisory Committee. The $8 billion proposal, backed by Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International, calls for a casino and entertainment complex next to Citi Field. The plan also includes a 25-acre public park, retail space, dining options, and transit upgrades.
With that approval, Metropolitan Park becomes the fourth project to advance, joining Bally’s proposal in the Bronx and racino expansions at Resorts World in Queens and MGM Empire City in Yonkers. Those racinos are widely expected to win two of the three licenses, leaving Metropolitan Park and Bally’s to battle for the remaining spot. Several other bids, including three in Manhattan and one at Coney Island, have been rejected.
Supporters argue that Metropolitan Park’s community outreach sets it apart. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards praised the developers for listening to local voices, contrasting the project’s grassroots approach with Amazon’s failed HQ2 bid. Richards emphasized the plan’s promise of 23,000 union jobs and $1 billion in community benefits, calling the project a major win for the borough.
The proposal has not been without obstacles. State Senator Jessica Ramos, whose district covers the site, opposed introducing the legislation needed to repurpose the land from park use. Eventually, Senator John Liu carried the bill forward, and it passed easily in Albany. Even Ramos’s appointee to the advisory panel voted in favor, citing the opportunity it presents for Queens.
Developers stress the project will only move forward if a license is granted. With a decision expected from the State Gaming Commission by year’s end, attention now shifts to whether Queens could secure two casinos. Business leaders believe both projects can coexist, given Resorts World’s proximity to JFK Airport and Metropolitan Park’s location near LaGuardia.
