In a significant development for New York City’s gaming landscape, a casino proposal by Bally’s has been approved by a community advisory committee to build a $4 billion casino in the Bronx. The vote, which passed 5-1, allows the project to advance to state consideration and is set to transform the former Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point into a vibrant entertainment destination.
This approval marks the third downstate proposal to make it past the local review process, reflecting strong support from local lawmakers who back the initiative. However, the vote was not without controversy. One committee member raised concerns over essential land use changes that were initially rejected by the City Council, with Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato labeling the proposal as “predatory development.” Despite this, the mayor’s veto of the Council’s decision kept the project alive.
In contrast, another casino proposal for a $3 billion casino at Coney Island, presented by Thor Equities, was rejected by the community advisory committee with a vote of 4-2. This decision highlights the complexities and differing opinions surrounding casino developments in the city.
If Bally’s successfully secures a casino license, they will be required to pay the Trump Organization $115 million, in accordance with their purchase agreement. This is in addition to the $60 million already paid to acquire the remainder of their lease for the city-owned golf course.
Looking ahead, the final proposal for a casino at Metropolitan Park at Citi Field, led by Mets owner Steve Cohen, is scheduled for a vote on Tuesday morning. Additionally, two other sites—Yonkers Raceway and Aqueduct Racetrack in Queens—received unanimous approval from their community advisory committees, advancing them to the state Gaming Commission, which plans to award three licenses in December.
As the local business landscape continues to evolve with these developments, the community remains engaged in discussions about the potential impacts of such projects.
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