Bally’s Bronx, Hard Rock and Resorts World Gain Key Approval in New York Casino Race

New York is closer than ever to adding full live-dealer casinos, and three major developers just cleared a major hurdle. After months of local hearings and heavy debate, all three proposals received the green light from the state board responsible for choosing future downstate casino sites.

Good to Know

• Hard Rock Metropolitan Park, Bally Bronx, and Resorts World New York all received location approval.
• The projects can now pursue operating licenses from the New York Gaming Commission.
• State projections show large increases in tax revenue and licensing fees from the three approved sites.

Board Approval Moves Projects Forward

The New York Gaming Facility Location Board voted to advance Bally Bronx, Hard Rock Metropolitan Park, and Resorts World New York, clearing the trio to request full operating licenses. Once the New York Gaming Commission ratifies the recommendations, New York City could host its first live-dealer gaming operations as early as 2026.

Only three proposals made it past community advisory boards after MGM Resorts withdrew its Empire City plan. No Manhattan bids reached approval.

Although many attendees protested during the meeting, shouting “Shame on you,” the board moved ahead with its decisions.

Locations and Development Plans

Hard Rock Metropolitan Park, backed by Mets owner Steve Cohen, is planned next to Citi Field in Queens. Bally Bronx will sit on the land currently used as Bally Golf Links in the Bronx. Resorts World New York already operates at Aqueduct Racetrack in Jamaica and intends to convert its video gaming operation into a full casino.

Resorts World stands closest to opening. Executives aim to have table games operating by March 2026, tied to a multi-billion-dollar redevelopment of the Aqueduct property. The site plans include thousands of hotel rooms, a larger gaming floor, a major entertainment venue, and green space for public use.

Robert DeSalvio of Genting Americas East said:

“Resorts World New York City’s journey to this historic moment represents more than 15 years of work to generate jobs, revenue, and opportunities for our neighbors. Resorts World New York City’s 7.5 billion dollar proposal is the only bid that can expand operations in just 90 days, generating billions in new revenue for mass transit and public education over the next four years. We are thankful the Gaming Facility Location Board recognized the tremendous economic impact we will have for New York State.”

Cohen’s project went through an intense regulatory path due to the need to reclassify the land under park use. The Hard Rock plan includes a hotel, entertainment venues, and new public space.

Bally Bronx is planned as a 23-story complex with a large gaming floor and hotel rooms. The company projects hundreds of millions in community benefits through the investment.

Why the Board Approved the Proposals

Greg Reimers from the board highlighted the strength of the region, noting the large population, high income levels, and heavy tourism that surrounds New York City. He said:

“The downstate market is among the strongest in the nation, supported by population density, income levels, and tourism. The sizable population within a two-hour drive will support sustained visitation supplemented by domestic and international travelers. Each proposal presents a strong competitive positioning, based on brand strength, amenities, and facility design.”

While several factors fed into the decision, economic activity and business development made up most of the scoring weight. Workforce plans, local impact, and commitments to diversity also shaped the final outcome.

The board expects each operator to support local businesses, improve transit access, and build partnerships with community groups. A document outlining concerns and conditions will be posted on the board website later.

Projected Economic Impact

From 2027 through 2036, state analysts project nearly 7 billion dollars in incremental gaming tax revenue from the three casino projects. Annual gaming tax totals are expected to approach 1 billion dollars in 2036 alone.

Licensing fees should bring another 1.5 billion dollars, while state and local tax streams may generate nearly 6 billion dollars over the same period.

Programs focused on problem gambling are expected to receive more than 10 million dollars each year.

FAQ

How many downstate casino licenses are available?

New York law allows four full casino licenses. Only three bids cleared local advisory boards.

When might the first casino open?

Resorts World New York aims to launch table games by March 2026 if it receives final approval.

Why was there public protest?

Some residents expressed concerns about development impact, which led to vocal pushback during the meeting.

Did any Manhattan casino proposals survive review?

No Manhattan plans passed community advisory review.

What made the approved bids strong?

Large economic projections, brand leverage, and detailed community commitments played major roles.

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