Queens, December 2, 2025
New York City has granted approval for an $8 billion casino and entertainment complex near Citi Field, proposed by Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International. This Metropolitan Park project aims to redevelop a parking lot into a vibrant mixed-use destination with a casino, hotel, and recreational spaces. Expected to create 17,000 construction jobs and 6,000 permanent positions, the development is projected to generate significant annual revenues and tax contributions by its third year of operation, while also facing some community opposition regarding gambling addiction concerns.
New York City Approves $8 Billion Casino Project Near Citi Field
A New Era of Entertainment and Economic Growth in Queens
New York City, NY – Mets owner Steve Cohen has received approval for an $8 billion casino and entertainment complex adjacent to Citi Field in Queens. The New York State Gaming Facility Location Board granted one of three downstate casino licenses to Cohen and Hard Rock International, marking a significant development in the city’s gaming landscape.
The proposed Metropolitan Park project aims to transform a 50-acre parking lot into a mixed-use destination featuring a casino, hotel, live entertainment venues, restaurants, shops, and public parks. Scheduled for completion in 2030, the development is projected to create 17,000 construction jobs and 6,000 permanent positions, with anticipated annual revenues of $3.9 billion and over $850 million in taxes by its third year of operation.
Government Support and Local Impact
Governor Kathy Hochul praised the project, highlighting its potential to generate substantial tax revenue and support the state’s transit system. By investing in large-scale developments like this, New York aims to boost its economy, stimulate growth in surrounding neighborhoods, and enhance the overall vibrant business climate of the city. Projects like Metropolitan Park exemplify how entrepreneurial drive can thrive in an environment with limited regulations, ultimately leading to significant economic rewards.
Community Concerns and Opposition
Despite the anticipated benefits, the proposal has faced opposition from some community members concerned about increased gambling addiction, particularly within Queens’ Asian American population. Protesters have disrupted approval meetings, raising alarms about the potential exploitation of vulnerable populations. Such community perspectives underscore the importance of balancing economic development with social responsibility—a challenge that requires ongoing dialogue among stakeholders.
Additional Casino Licenses and Broader Economic Impacts
In addition to Cohen’s project, the Gaming Facility Location Board approved two other casino licenses: Resorts World New York City at Aqueduct Racetrack and a Bally’s casino at Ferry Point golf course in the Bronx. Together, these developments are expected to generate billions in investment and create tens of thousands of jobs, contributing to the revitalization of their respective neighborhoods.
A Commitment to Community Investments
The Metropolitan Park project has undergone several stages of approval, demonstrating the complex nature of real estate development in New York. In March 2025, the New York City Council voted 41-2 in favor of zoning changes to facilitate the development. State Senator John Liu introduced legislation to allow the project to move forward. As part of the agreement, Cohen has committed to building the Flushing Skypark, an elevated walkway connecting downtown Flushing to Willets Point. If the Skypark does not materialize, Cohen has pledged $100 million for improvements to Flushing Meadows Corona Park, reflecting a commitment to community enhancements alongside economic gains.
Conclusion
With the state commission’s approval, the Metropolitan Park project is one step closer to becoming a reality, promising to reshape the area around Citi Field and contribute to New York City’s economic growth. As developments in the entertainment and gaming sectors begin to proliferate, the ongoing transformation of New York brings opportunities for job creation and local business support. Engaging with and supporting local businesses will be essential as New Yorkers navigate this exciting period of economic growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Metropolitan Park project?
The Metropolitan Park project is an $8 billion casino and entertainment complex proposed by Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International. It aims to redevelop a 50-acre parking lot adjacent to Citi Field in Queens into a mixed-use destination featuring a casino, hotel, live entertainment venues, restaurants, shops, and public parks.
When is the Metropolitan Park project expected to be completed?
The project is scheduled for completion in 2030.
How many jobs will the Metropolitan Park project create?
The development is projected to create 17,000 construction jobs and 6,000 permanent positions.
What are the projected revenues and taxes for the Metropolitan Park project?
By its third year of operation, the project is anticipated to generate annual revenues of $3.9 billion and over $850 million in taxes.
What other casino projects have been approved in New York City?
In addition to the Metropolitan Park project, the Gaming Facility Location Board approved Resorts World New York City at Aqueduct Racetrack and a Bally’s casino at Ferry Point golf course in the Bronx.
What is the Flushing Skypark?
The Flushing Skypark is an elevated walkway proposed to connect downtown Flushing to Willets Point. It is part of the agreement for the Metropolitan Park project, with Cohen committing to its construction. If the Skypark does not materialize, Cohen has pledged $100 million for improvements to Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
Key Features of the Metropolitan Park Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Adjacent to Citi Field in Queens, New York City |
| Project Cost | $8 billion |
| Completion Date | 2030 |
| Job Creation | 17,000 construction jobs and 6,000 permanent positions |
| Annual Revenue (Year 3) | $3.9 billion |
| Annual Tax Revenue (Year 3) | Over $850 million |
| Additional Community Investment | $100 million pledged for Flushing Meadows Corona Park improvements if Flushing Skypark is not built |
Now Happening on X
- @exec_sum (December 1, 2025): Breaking news on Steve Cohen and Hard Rock securing a downstate NY casino license for the $8B Metropolitan Park project next to Citi Field, alongside approvals for Genting’s Resorts World and Bally’s. View on X
- @MetsBatflip1 (December 1, 2025): Steve Cohen and Hard Rock awarded a downstate NY casino license for the $8 billion Metropolitan Park project adjacent to Citi Field, projected to open in June 2030. View on X
- @MazzNYC (December 1, 2025): Details on Metropolitan Park’s specs, including a Hard Rock Hotel with casino on 50 acres around Citi Field, creating 23,000 union jobs and $1B in community investments. View on X
- @MetsFix (December 2, 2025): Explanation of revenue projections for Metropolitan Park, estimating $3.9 billion by its third year, positioning Citi Field as a major economic driver. View on X
- @FlashNewsBite (December 1, 2025): NY approves $17B casino boom in Queens and Bronx, including Cohen’s $8B Hard Rock at Citi Field, unlocking $1.5B for MTA and over 10K jobs, potentially turning NYC into Vegas East. View on X
- @NextMetropolis (December 1, 2025): NYC nears approval for three new casinos, marking a milestone for downstate gaming with impacts on vertical construction, jobs, and transit infrastructure. View on X
- @THEHCC (December 1, 2025): Steve Cohen and Hard Rock officially secure a NY downstate gambling license for the $8B Metropolitan Park casino next to Citi Field, with Genting’s Resorts World and Bally’s also awarded. View on X
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