News Summary
MGM Resorts International’s proposal to transform the historic Empire City Casino in Yonkers into a $2.3 billion casino and entertainment hub has garnered unanimous backing from a local advisory committee. This favorable vote contrasts with rejected proposals in Manhattan, highlighting the competitive nature of casino licensing in New York. The plan includes extensive renovations, new entertainment venues, and increased community funding to address local concerns. The economic impact of the expansion could significantly benefit Yonkers, as MGM awaits final license decisions.
New York – MGM Resorts International’s ambitious proposal to transform the historic Empire City Casino in Yonkers into a $2.3 billion full commercial casino and entertainment destination has received unanimous support from a local community advisory committee. The five-member panel voted 5-0 in favor of the bid, marking a significant step forward for MGM, which is vying for one of three casino licenses that New York state plans to officially issue by the end of the year.
This vote stands in sharp contrast to three rival casino proposals in Manhattan that were recently rejected by similar community committees, highlighting the competitive nature of the bidding process for the lucrative gaming licenses.
Details of the Proposal
MGM’s proposal includes a comprehensive renovation and expansion of the existing gaming areas at Empire City Casino, which has been operational in Yonkers for over a century. The plan features the addition of a new entertainment venue with a capacity of 5,000 people, alongside facilities for meetings and events. Additionally, it encompasses the development of three new full-service restaurants and upgrades to current food and beverage options.
Significantly, MGM has amended its proposal to include increased funding for community and economic development, which emphasizes supporting local small businesses. This move was likely made to address concerns from local residents about the implications of expanding the casino’s footprint.
Economic Impact and Community Concerns
Empire City Casino has generated more than $4 billion in tax revenue for New York schools since 2006 and is projected to produce over $50 million annually in taxes and revenue for Yonkers once the expansion is complete. However, some residents have expressed concerns regarding potential noise, traffic, flooding, and overall quality of life surrounding the expanded casino development.
Despite these concerns, the majority of community members expressed their support for the project, indicating that there is a prevailing belief in the potential benefits the casino could bring to the local economy. Committee Chair James Cavanaugh noted that without securing a gaming license, the existing Empire City Casino could “wither and die,” underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Comparative Progress Among Proposals
Frank Jereis, a member of the committee, pointed out the stark contrast between the smooth approval process faced by the Yonkers proposition compared to the challenges encountered by proposals in Manhattan. Other competing bids for New York City casino licenses include those from Bally’s at Bally’s Golf Links in the Bronx, an $8 billion proposal from Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International near Citi Field in Queens, a $3 billion plan for Coney Island, and a $5 billion expansion plan by Resorts World New York City at Aqueduct Racetrack.
Next Steps and License Decisions
The State Gaming Commission mandates that any casino bid must obtain a two-thirds majority vote from community advisory committees to advance to the Gaming Facility Location Board. Decisions related to the casino licenses are expected to be finalized by December 1.
The successful advisory votes in both Yonkers and Queens represent a significant development in the downstate New York gaming market, as both areas aim to enhance their economic prospects through expanded gaming options. MGM anticipates that construction on the project could commence within months of receiving the necessary licenses, with plans that include the addition of 183 live dealer games, 14 new restaurants and bars, and the new entertainment venue designed for concerts and shows.
Overall, the potential success of Empire City Casino with expanded gaming options raises anticipation regarding its future contributions to the Yonkers economy, particularly in creating jobs and increasing revenue. Both MGM’s proposal and the competing plans are awaiting further review from the New York Gaming Facility Location Board, as the landscape for casino operations in New York continues to evolve.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- The New York Times
- CoStar
- CDC Gaming Reports
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Casino
- Google News: New York casino
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
NEW YORK STAFF WRITER The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
