Plans to build a casino near Citi Field have moved a step closer to reality. The New York State Assembly has passed a bill that would allow the land near the stadium to be redeveloped, clearing a major legal barrier for Mets owner Steve Cohen’s proposal.
Good to know
- Assembly approved the bill by a 138-7 vote.
- The project would repurpose 50 acres near Citi Field into an entertainment and casino complex.
- Senate approval is still needed before local zoning moves forward.
The New York State Assembly gave strong backing to a bill allowing the redevelopment of land next to Citi Field in Queens, with a wide 138-7 vote in favor. The bill supports a proposal from Mets owner Steve Cohen to build a casino and entertainment complex on the site.
Currently, the 50-acre stretch of land cannot be used for anything other than parking without direct state approval. The Assembly’s vote addresses that issue, giving the City of New York the ability to pursue local zoning and land-use approvals—if the Senate passes the same measure.
Supporters See Local Economic Benefits
Assemblywoman Larinda Hooks, who introduced the bill, argued the project could provide an economic lift to the surrounding community. She pointed to job creation, higher local revenue, and better public amenities as key reasons to repurpose the land.
Hooks said, “Residents in nearby neighborhoods deserve access to the investments that have historically gone elsewhere in the city.”
The plan aims to turn an underused area into a hub for entertainment, tourism, and employment.
While the Assembly’s approval marks progress, the proposal still faces obstacles in the Senate. Senator Jessica Ramos, who represents much of the area where the project would be located, has not supported the bill.
She raised concerns over the transparency of the development process, the size of the project, and how it might affect the surrounding neighborhoods. Ramos plays a central role in local land-use matters, making her opposition a potential roadblock.
Despite the lack of local Senate support, momentum for the casino project may still continue. Steve Cohen has invested heavily in lobbying and public outreach to promote the plan. His team has worked to gather backing from both lawmakers and community groups.
Cohen’s efforts are also part of a wider race to secure one of the limited downstate casino licenses New York is expected to grant. Many developers are competing for a spot, making early legislative wins critical.
The post New York State Assembly Approves Casino Plan Near Citi Field appeared first on iGaming.org.