Larry Silverstein’s push to secure a casino license in New York City just gained momentum. The real estate developer behind the World Trade Center rebuild has brought Rush Street Gaming on board as a partner for his proposed casino project, The Avenir, planned for Manhattan’s Far West Side.
Good to know
- The proposed casino site is shovel-ready and located near the Javits Center.
- The Avenir project would include a 46-story mixed-use tower.
- Casino bids must be submitted by June 27, 2025.
Silverstein Properties is now backed by both Rush Street Gaming and Greenwood Gaming and Entertainment, strengthening its application for one of three available downstate casino licenses in New York. Rush Street already operates Rivers Casino in Schenectady, while Greenwood runs two properties in Pennsylvania.
Tim Drehkoff, CEO of Rush Street Gaming, commented on the collaboration: “Our past projects in Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and Schenectady were each the first destination casinos in their respective cities. We look forward to working with Silverstein, Greenwood and the Far West Side community on the Avenir.”
The proposed development site, located at 11th Avenue and 41st Street, sits just north of the Javits Center. Silverstein Properties confirmed that the 92,000-square-foot parcel is fully owned and ready for construction.
Thousands of jobs and local focus
The Avenir is more than just a casino. The 46-story complex is designed as a mixed-use project that would generate about 4,000 union construction jobs and more than 5,000 permanent union positions once operational. Silverstein highlighted the group’s ties to the area, saying, “Our company has been part of the West Side for over 40 years. Each of our organizations is family-owned, multi-generational, and deeply committed to the neighborhoods in which we work and live.”
Competing bids from major players
Silverstein’s group will need to stand out in a crowded field. Several major proposals are expected before the June 27 deadline. These include a $12 billion Hudson Yards bid from Wynn Resorts and Related Companies, as well as plans for casinos in Times Square, Coney Island, Queens near Citi Field, the Bronx, and the East River waterfront.
The Avenir team is counting on its combination of shovel-ready land, experienced casino operators, and community ties to make a compelling case for state regulators.
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