NEW YORK – Three sites outside Manhattan—the New York Mets’ ballpark in Queens, a Bronx golf course formerly operated by President Donald Trump’s company, and a slot parlor at a horse racing track near John F. Kennedy International Airport—will become the city’s first Las Vegas-style resort casinos.
On Monday, the state Gaming Commission awarded licenses for all three projects during a meeting in upper Manhattan. The approvals come with the requirement that each company appoint an independent monitor to ensure compliance with state law and fulfillment of community investment commitments. Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer emphasized the expected benefits of jobs, infrastructure improvements, and gaming revenue.
A small group of protestors voiced opposition to the Mets owner Steve Cohen’s casino plan, accusing the commission of favoring billionaires over local residents. Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul praised the casino projects, citing potential billions in funding for the state transit system and significant job creation, while critics warned that easier access to gambling could increase addiction.
The winning projects prevailed over other proposals, including three Manhattan-based casinos rejected by local boards—among them a Caesars Palace plan in Times Square backed by rapper Jay-Z—and a Coney Island resort opposed by local residents. MGM also withdrew from the competition despite local support.
The 2013 voter-approved referendum allowed the state to license up to three casinos in the New York City area. Upstate, four full casinos currently operate with table games, and nine gambling halls without live tables also exist. Monday’s approval largely formalizes plans already accounted for in the state budget.
Earlier this month, a state panel recommended granting licenses to all three finalists, noting that New York City’s dense population, affluence, and high tourism could sustain the casinos despite their close proximity. Estimates indicate the projects could generate $7 billion in gambling tax revenue from 2027 to 2036, along with $1.5 billion in licensing fees and nearly $6 billion in state and local taxes.
The decision could also benefit Trump financially. Bally’s, which purchased operating rights to the city-owned Ferry Point golf course from the Trump Organization in 2023, agreed to pay an additional $115 million if the site received a casino license. The Trump Organization has not commented on the potential payout.