Bally’s Bronx Casino Project Moves Forward, Boosting Trump Organization’s Earnings Potential
Bally’s Casino Plan in the Bronx Advances with Strong Local Support
Bally’s Corporation has made significant progress in its efforts to establish a $4 billion casino resort in the Bronx, securing important backing from a local advisory panel. This development keeps the project competitive in New York’s highly contested battle for three lucrative downstate casino licenses and positions the Trump Organization to potentially earn $175 million from the venture.
Local Board Approves Bally’s Proposal Despite Some Opposition
The advisory group responsible for evaluating the Bronx proposal voted five to one in favor of proceeding with Bally’s plan to develop a large-scale casino and resort at the former Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point. The next stage involves review by the state Gaming Facility Location Board, which will select winning proposals by December.
Bally’s vision includes a 500,000-square-foot casino, a luxury hotel with 500 rooms, a 2,000-seat entertainment venue, and an array of retail and dining options. The company promotes the project as a transformative investment that could create thousands of union jobs and generate ongoing revenue for the borough. Officials including Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson and several state legislators have expressed strong support, highlighting the project’s potential to foster sustained economic growth in an area that often misses out on major development opportunities.
However, opposition remains from some quarters. The sole dissenting vote came from an appointee of Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato, voicing concerns from local residents about the impact of converting public parkland into a commercial casino site. Previously, the local community board had rejected the proposal in a non-binding vote, reflecting worries about the effects of large-scale gambling on the neighborhood.
Political Challenges Overcome with Mayoral Support
The road to this approval has not been without political hurdles. Bally’s acquired the lease for the Ferry Point golf course from the Trump Organization in 2023, agreeing to an upfront payment of $60 million and an additional $115 million contingent on obtaining a gaming license. This arrangement has drawn criticism from those opposed to benefiting the Trump Organization financially without active involvement in the project.
In July, the project faced a major setback when the New York City Council voted against rezoning the site to allow the casino. However, Mayor Eric Adams intervened by vetoing the council’s decision, thereby allowing Bally’s to continue pursuing its casino license. City Hall emphasized that the mayor’s action reflects a broader commitment to advancing casino development across all boroughs, rather than any specific affiliations.
The competition remains fierce, with other notable contenders including Resorts World in Queens, MGM’s Empire City in Yonkers, and Mets team owner Steve Cohen’s Metropolitan Park proposal. Bally’s recent approval from the Bronx advisory committee places it firmly among the leading candidates vying for New York’s casino licenses.
