June 29, 2025

New York Casino License Applications Deadline Approaches

News Summary

As developers rush to submit applications for three coveted casino licenses in New York City, the Gaming Facility Location Board anticipates nearly eight submissions. The applications highlight a range of detailed requirements and have sparked both enthusiasm and opposition within the community. MGM Yonkers Inc. aims to transform the Empire City Casino into a $2.3 billion project, promising job creation and sustainability initiatives. The licensing process reflects the larger debate surrounding economic growth and community impact in the region.

New York – Applications for three sought-after casino licenses in and around New York City are due today, marking a significant deadline for developers and companies seeking to expand the region’s gaming landscape. The state’s Gaming Facility Location Board is responsible for reviewing submissions, which are expected to total around eight by day’s end.

Some developers have already taken the initiative to deliver applications in person to the board’s office in Schenectady. The breadth of documentation required for each application highlights the complexity of the licensing process, with one submission reportedly exceeding 50,000 pages, while another is a more concise 900 pages. Necessary documents include bank references, tax returns, and revenue forecasts specifically related to slot machine operations.

Industry Rivalry and Community Reactions

The competition surrounding these casino licenses has spurred both enthusiasm and opposition among stakeholders. A rally took place in Times Square to advocate for the Caesars Palace Times Square project, a collaboration between Caesars Entertainment, Roc Nation, and SL Green Realty. This event occurred just one day after a demonstration by the No Times Square Casino Coalition, which voiced its opposition to the Caesars endeavor.

MGM Yonkers Inc. has also thrown its hat in the ring, submitting a proposal for a commercial casino license at the Empire City Casino site. The company is proposing an ambitious $2.3 billion expansion aimed at transforming the current venue. This proposal includes extensive renovations, a high-limit lounge, and the introduction of a BetMGM Sportsbook, along with plans for a 5,000-person capacity entertainment venue and new full-service restaurants.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

MGM Yonkers is positioning its development as a key driver of job creation, anticipating that the economic activity generated by the new casino license will yield thousands of new jobs for local residents. Furthermore, the proposal outlines a revenue-sharing plan that allocates 20% of the tax revenue generated from the casino operations. This revenue is proposed to be divided as follows: 10% to the City of Yonkers, 5% to Westchester County, and 5% to Rockland and Putnam counties.

Sustainability Initiatives

In addition to economic benefits, MGM Resorts is placing emphasis on sustainability as a cornerstone of its development strategy. Planned features include a solar energy parking garage designed to minimize environmental impact, along with advanced water conservation initiatives throughout the facility.

Since the opening of Empire City Casino in 2006, MGM Resorts has demonstrated a significant commitment to the state of New York, contributing over $5 billion to its education system. Bill Hornbuckle, President and CEO of MGM Resorts, has highlighted the cultural and economic significance of Empire City Casino, particularly how it aligns with community interests and regional development goals.

Conclusion

As the deadline for casino license applications closes, the potential for expanded gaming in New York City looms large, bringing with it a mix of economic promise and community debate. The ensuing review process will determine which proposals move forward as developers navigate both the excitement and opposition linked to significant gaming developments in the heart of one of America’s largest cities.

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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.

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