Summary
- NYC hopes to get two of the three casino licenses included in the 2022 budget
- Resorts World in Queens is already expected to be granted one of the licenses
- Proposal for a high-end casino in Manhattan gains traction
Two operators in New York City could be granted a full casino gambling license as legislators continue to discuss a gambling expansion deal as part of the Empire State’s 2022 budget.
This year’s budget will see three full-blown casino licenses being awarded across New York which will serve as a significant source of revenue for the state in line with its pandemic recovery plan.
The key details of ongoing negotiations in the state Legislature were unveiled this week by Senator Joe Addabbo who currently serves as chair of the Racing, Gaming, and Wagering Committee.
Full Casino Offering Could Come to Resorts World Queens
New York City (NYC) Mayor Eric Adams already expressed his desire for the city to be granted two full casino licenses though he did not announce his preferred locations. The Resorts World Casino in Queens will most likely get one of the two licenses considering that it’s already established and will only need to expand its facilities once it obtains the license.
The same thing goes for the Empire City Casino in Yonkers, which Senator Addabbo said is also a highly-favored candidate. This means that the two establishments could soon run a wide range of table games such as poker and blackjack, in addition to their existing offerings which are only limited to slots and racing betting.
High-end Casino in Manhattan?
As to the third license, Mayor Adams is hopeful NYC would get it. Adams said obtaining two full casino licenses will strengthen the city’s tourism and economy, a view backed by Sen. Addabbo who is a lifelong resident of Ozone Park, Queens.
However, while Sen. Addabbo recognizes the massive economic contribution of the casinos to the city as it continues to recover from the revenue slump brought about by COVID-19, he cannot guarantee that NYC will get the two licenses given the existing opposition to gambling expansion in the area.
But assuming NYC ultimately obtains the third license, where among the five boroughs will a new casino be located?
There are bids for a gambling hub in Times Square and other locations, but a proposal to build a casino designed for high rollers at Saks Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan is what’s getting the most attention. Over the years, gambling operators have been trying to establish their operations in Manhattan which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New York.
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