New Jersey Reignites Discussion on Casino Expansion Beyond Atlantic City
New Casino Expansion Debate in New Jersey
Stakeholders in New Jersey’s gambling industry are revisiting a contentious topic: expanding casino operations outside of Atlantic City. Although nearly ten years ago voters decisively opposed expanding casinos beyond the city, current developers and legislators believe that permitting casinos in northern parts of the state could be advantageous. This reconsideration is largely driven by the need to maintain a competitive edge against new gambling developments in nearby New York City.
Challenges Posed by New York’s Casino Projects
The discussion is heavily influenced by New York’s plans to open three major casino resorts. Some officials in New Jersey express concern that these large-scale casinos might draw away both gamblers and revenue from their state. Prominent state senators, including Vin Gopal and Paul Sarlo, are advocating for a legislative initiative that would let voters decide on allowing casinos in northern New Jersey through a referendum.
Support for this initiative also comes from operators at Meadowlands Racetrack and Monmouth Park Racetrack. Currently offering legal sports betting and horse racing, these entities argue that securing full casino licenses would help preserve New Jersey’s gambling market. They point to their existing venues as ideal locations that have the infrastructure needed for expansion into full casino operations.
“We already offer sports betting and horse racing on site. Gambling activities are established here. What would be the difference?” — Senator Vin Gopal
This push is partly a strategic defense: a new casino is planned only about 20 miles from the Meadowlands, near Citi Field in Queens. Advocates believe that having casinos closer to northern New Jersey residents would prevent them from traveling all the way to Atlantic City, instead choosing venues just across the river.
Strong Opposition from Atlantic City
Despite the arguments in favor of expansion, Atlantic City and southern New Jersey remain staunchly against such changes. Officials in Atlantic County warn that allowing casinos elsewhere in the state could destabilize the region’s fragile gaming economy. Leaders from Atlantic City fear that new competition would jeopardize the significant progress made since the pandemic in reviving their casino industry. Mayor Marty Small Sr. and other local leaders have expressed strong opposition to any attempts to disrupt Atlantic City’s monopoly on casino gambling in the state.
In efforts to address these concerns, the proposed legislation includes measures to support Atlantic City. It suggests allocating at least 10% of tax revenues from any new northern casinos to boost tourism and economic development in the resort city. Yet the political landscape remains uncertain. The last similar proposal in 2016 was overwhelmingly rejected by voters, reflecting the deep-rooted protection of Atlantic City’s singular role in New Jersey gaming.
Meanwhile, other ideas are being discussed that could alter how gaming revenue is shared statewide. Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson has called for a more equitable distribution of the financial responsibilities related to casino programs, arguing that all 21 counties should contribute financially since the gambling industry benefits the entire state, not just Atlantic County.
