New York City, October 12, 2025
The race for a casino license in New York City is heating up as developers, including Bally’s, advance plans for major projects on golf course sites in the Bronx and Queens. Bally’s has cleared a significant environmental review for its $4 billion entertainment complex at the former Trump Golf Links, while plans are also in discussion for integrated resorts in Queens. Local leaders are debating the economic benefits against potential community impacts, with the final licensing decision expected by late 2025.
New York
The competition for a casino license in New York City has heated up, with developers pushing forward on projects at golf course sites in the Bronx and Queens. Bally’s recently passed a major environmental review for its proposed resort at the former Trump Golf Links in the Bronx, marking a key step toward potential approval. This development comes as local leaders weigh the promise of economic growth and tourism against possible effects on nearby communities.
Bally’s Project Advances
Bally’s announcement highlights progress in converting the 200-acre site, once a Trump-owned golf course, into a $4 billion entertainment complex. The environmental hurdle cleared involves assessments of air quality, traffic, and local ecosystems, confirming no major barriers at this stage. The plan includes a casino, hotel, and public green spaces, aiming to create thousands of jobs if approved.
In Queens, competing bids focus on similar transformations, with proposals targeting underused land near Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. These sites could host integrated resorts blending gaming, retail, and recreation, drawing crowds from across the region.
Local Debates Intensify
Community discussions center on balancing benefits like increased revenue for public services and tourism influx with concerns over traffic congestion, noise, and changes to neighborhood character. Residents and officials in the Bronx express mixed views, some supporting the economic lift while others prioritize preserving green areas and addressing gentrification risks.
Queens stakeholders echo these worries, pushing for strong mitigation measures such as affordable housing commitments and community benefit agreements. The state’s gaming commission will ultimately decide, with a final license expected to award three downstate casinos by late 2025.
Background on the License Battle
New York legalized up to three new casinos outside Manhattan in 2013, but only one license has been issued so far. The current race involves major players like Bally’s, Caesars, and Wynn, each vying for the limited slots. Past proposals faced delays due to regulatory scrutiny and local opposition, but renewed interest in golf course conversions offers fresh opportunities for urban redevelopment.
These projects align with broader city goals to boost hospitality and entertainment sectors post-pandemic, potentially generating billions in tax revenue. However, success depends on navigating ongoing environmental and community reviews.
FAQ
What is the latest development in the New York City casino license competition?
The competition for a casino license in New York City has heated up, with Bally’s recently passed a major environmental review for its proposed resort at the former Trump Golf Links in the Bronx.
Where are the main proposed casino sites located?
Developers are focusing on golf course sites in the Bronx and Queens, including the former Trump Golf Links in the Bronx and areas near Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens.
What does Bally’s project involve?
Bally’s plan for the 200-acre former Trump Golf Links site includes a $4 billion entertainment complex with a casino, hotel, and public green spaces.
What are the key concerns raised by local leaders?
Local leaders are debating the potential economic growth and tourism boosts against community impacts like traffic congestion, noise, and changes to neighborhood character.
When is the final casino license expected?
The state’s gaming commission will decide on three downstate casino licenses, with a final award expected by late 2025.
Key Features of Proposed NYC Casino Projects
| Project | Location | Key Features | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bally’s Resort | Bronx (Former Trump Golf Links) | $4B complex with casino, hotel, public green spaces; job creation | Cleared environmental review |
| Queens Proposals | Queens (near Flushing Meadows) | Gaming, retail, recreation on underused land | In bidding process |
| Overall Competition | New York City | Three licenses; focus on tourism and revenue vs. community impacts | Decision by late 2025 |
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