Operators Engage Communities as New York’s Downstate Casino License Competition Heats Up
Competition for New York’s Downstate Casino Licenses Reaches Critical Stage
The contest to secure one of New York’s three valuable downstate casino licenses has intensified, with recent community advisory committee (CAC) hearings showcasing the varied approaches developers are taking to win local support. On September 15, two prominent contenders — a project called Freedom Plaza on Manhattan’s East Side and Resorts World New York City (RWNY) in Queens — presented their plans during CAC hearings, highlighting distinctly different community reactions.
Divergent Opinions on High-Profile Casino Developments
The second CAC hearing for Freedom Plaza revealed a mixture of strong backing and considerable opposition, underscoring how the $11 billion venture remains a polarizing subject. Representatives from the developers — Michael Hershman of the Soloviev Group and Nelson Parker of the Mohegan Group — showcased an updated proposal that included enhanced traffic management strategies, an increase in affordable housing units from 513 to 600, and the establishment of a $250 million fund dedicated to community reinvestment.
Support for Freedom Plaza came from a range of stakeholders, including small business owners and union leaders, who viewed the project as a vital chance to rejuvenate an underused area along the East River. The Mohegan Group emphasized the job creation potential linked to the casino resort. Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League, expressed strong approval, emphasizing that the economic benefits were expected to significantly outweigh any downsides.
Initiatives that focus on living wages and prioritize local employment can enhance upward mobility, reduce racial economic disparities, and foster community stability.
Marc Morial, National Urban League president and CEO
Despite the enthusiasm, the Freedom Plaza proposal faced vocal opposition from long-standing residents of Tudor City, who raised concerns about increased traffic and noise disturbing their peaceful neighborhood. Residents feared that mitigation efforts would be insufficient to protect local institutions such as hospitals and schools. A portion of the community remained firmly against the development, irrespective of its political support and financial resources.
Strong Community Support Benefits Resorts World New York City
In stark contrast, the CAC hearing for Resorts World New York City in Queens was marked by unanimous backing. More than 50 speakers, including elected officials, labor leaders, nonprofit heads, and casino employees, voiced their full support with no organized opposition or dissenting opinions. This broad endorsement significantly improved RWNY’s prospects for securing a license.
The success of RWNY’s approach can be attributed to its comprehensive harm reduction measures. The project promises a $425 million community benefit package over five years, offers approximately 7,300 covered parking spaces, and is launching workforce initiatives immediately, including a career center at Jamaica Station and a dealer training facility within the casino premises.
Countdown to Decision Amidst Fierce Competition
With a total of eight bids competing for just three licenses, the timeline is tight. The CAC voting was slated for the end of September, requiring a two-thirds majority to send selected projects forward to state-level review. The state’s Gaming Facility Location Board is expected to announce final selections by the end of December. These decisions will mark a pivotal moment, reshaping New York’s gambling industry landscape on a scale not seen in decades.
