New York City, October 15, 2025
The competition for New York City’s downstate casino license has intensified, with Resorts World, Hard Rock, and Wynn Resorts emerging as finalists after MGM withdrew its bid. This comes following a voter-approved initiative to expand casino gambling, and the decision will significantly impact the city’s economy and skyline, promising enormous revenue and job creation.
New York City Casino License Race Narrows to Three Finalists
New York City – The competition for the city’s downstate casino license has narrowed to three finalists after MGM withdrew its bid for a Yonkers development on October 15, 2025. The remaining contenders—Resorts World, Hard Rock, and Wynn Resorts—are now vying for the chance to build integrated resorts in the metropolitan area, a move expected to generate significant economic impact.
Key Developments in the Licensing Process
MGM’s decision to pull out leaves Resorts World, Hard Rock, and Wynn Resorts as the top proposals moving forward. This withdrawal simplifies the selection process for state regulators, who aim to award the license to one operator to develop a major casino and entertainment complex. The three finalists have each proposed ambitious projects tailored to different parts of the city, focusing on gaming, hotels, dining, and convention spaces.
The race has drawn intense interest due to the potential for billions in revenue and thousands of jobs. State officials have prioritized proposals that align with urban revitalization goals while addressing community concerns about traffic, noise, and gambling addiction.
Background on the Downstate Casino Initiative
New York voters approved a constitutional amendment in 2022 to expand casino gambling beyond existing tribal and racetrack venues. The downstate license covers New York City and nine surrounding counties, targeting areas like Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens for new developments.
Prior to MGM’s exit, seven operators had submitted bids in 2023. The process involved public hearings, environmental reviews, and negotiations with local stakeholders. The remaining finalists emerged after a rigorous evaluation by the New York State Gaming Facility Location Board.
This development follows broader gaming industry trends, where operators are betting on urban markets to capture tourism and local spending. The winning project could transform underused sites into vibrant hubs, boosting tax revenues for education and infrastructure.
What Happens Next
Regulators will now conduct deeper assessments of the three proposals, including site visits and additional community input. A final decision is anticipated in late 2025 or early 2026, with construction potentially starting soon after. The outcome will shape New York City’s skyline and economy for decades.
FAQ: New York City Casino License Competition
- What is the current status of the New York City downstate casino license race?
- The competition for the city’s downstate casino license has narrowed to three finalists after MGM withdrew its bid for a Yonkers development on October 15, 2025.
- Who are the remaining contenders for the casino license?
- The remaining contenders—Resorts World, Hard Rock, and Wynn Resorts—are now vying for the chance to build integrated resorts in the metropolitan area.
- Why is this casino license important?
- This license allows for the development of major integrated resorts, expected to generate significant economic impact through revenue and job creation in New York City and surrounding areas.
- When was the initiative to expand casino gambling in New York approved?
- New York voters approved a constitutional amendment in 2022 to expand casino gambling beyond existing tribal and racetrack venues.
- What areas does the downstate casino license cover?
- The downstate license covers New York City and nine surrounding counties, targeting areas like Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens for new developments.
- What is the timeline for the final decision?
- A final decision is anticipated in late 2025 or early 2026, with construction potentially starting soon after.
Chart: Key Finalists in the NYC Casino License Race
| Operator | Proposed Location | Key Features | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resorts World | Queens (near Aqueduct Racetrack) | Expansion of existing facility with hotel, retail, and entertainment; focuses on community integration | Finalist |
| Hard Rock | Manhattan (Midtown West) | Music-themed resort with casino, concert venue, and luxury accommodations; emphasizes tourism | Finalist |
| Wynn Resorts | Hudson Yards, Manhattan | High-end integrated resort with gaming, spa, dining, and event spaces; targets upscale visitors | Finalist |
This table summarizes the key features of the three remaining proposals, highlighting their locations and focal points based on public filings.
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