The Gaming Facility Location Board is close to making its final decisions
New York’s long-running race for downstate casino licenses is approaching a major milestone. On Monday, the state’s Gaming Facility Location Board will vote on which applicants should advance to receive one of the highly coveted gaming licenses. Although three licenses are available, the board is not obligated to award all of them, keeping uncertainty high heading into the meeting.
After years of proposals and political maneuvering, the field has narrowed from more than a dozen bidders to just three. The remaining contenders are Bally’s plan in the Bronx, Resorts World’s expansion proposal in Queens, and the Metropolitan Park project led by New York Mets owner Steve Cohen alongside Hard Rock, located next to Citi Field.
Resorts World is widely seen as a strong contender because it already operates a large video lottery terminal facility in Ozone Park. Its pitch centers on transforming the existing property into a full-scale casino by adding table games, a move that could fast-track revenue generation for the state.
Bally’s has had a more difficult path. Zoning challenges stalled its Bronx proposal near the Ferry Point golf course, but Mayor Eric Adams recently pushed the project forward. The company is promoting a large resort complex with a casino and hotel, hoping its revised momentum will impress the board.
Cohen’s Metropolitan Park proposal has attracted the most public attention. The plan would redevelop the parking lots around Citi Field into a casino resort alongside a food hall, public space, and entertainment district. Despite neighborhood concerns, many view the bid as a strong candidate due to its scale and backing.
Once the board selects its finalists, the state Gaming Commission will conduct final reviews to ensure each applicant meets ethical and financial standards before any licenses are officially issued.
