Hard Rock Queens Casino Has ‘Good Shot’ at Approval
Hard Rock Queens Casino Has ‘Good Shot’ at Approval, Says State Senator
Table of Contents
- State senator says Cohen/Hard Rock bid has credible shot of approval
- Project is viewed as a leading contender for one of three downstate permits
- Politician opposes casinos in Manhattan
A plan spearheaded by Steven Cohen and Hard Rock International aims to establish a casino hotel in Queens, presenting a viable chance at securing one of the three downstate casino licenses available in New York. State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal (D) recently shared his insights during an interview, expressing optimism about the potential of the Queens casino proposal.
The proposed project, known as *Metropolitan Park*, is projected to cost $8 billion and will be a large entertainment complex that includes diverse dining options, entertainment venues, green spaces, and a gaming area. The plans also promise 25 acres of parkland for public use, highlighting five acres dedicated to athletic fields, various eateries, a live music venue, improved cycling access, and a substantial $163 million community impact fund.
Despite his cautious support for the Queens plan, Senator Hoylman-Sigal maintains opposition to any expansion of gaming in New York, citing potential negative impacts on local communities, including increased crime and traffic, as well as gambling addiction.
Hoylman-Sigal Still Opposed to Manhattan Casino
Historically, Senator Hoylman-Sigal has been critical of casino projects in Manhattan, where he is running for borough president. He directly stated, “If you want a casino in Manhattan, don’t vote for Brad Hoylman-Sigal,” indicating his strong stance against the potential degradation of local quality of life. He claims that residents he has spoken to during his campaign overwhelmingly oppose a casino in their area, characterizing casinos as “shortsighted” solutions for generating revenue in a cash-strapped state.
“The problems that casinos bring to neighborhoods are well documented. Those cost the public purse a lot of money too,” he remarked. However, he noted, “If a community strongly embraces a casino in another borough, more power to them.”
Queens Casino Could Have Tailwinds
In an environment where eight bids have been submitted for the three downstate licenses, the Hard Rock proposal seems increasingly viable, especially given the sentiment against casinos in Manhattan. There is speculation that existing contenders, MGM Resorts International’s Empire City Casino in Yonkers and Resorts World New York in Queens, are likely frontrunners, suggesting that other proposals, including Hard Rock’s, may be vying for a single remaining permit.
Following amendments to legislation in Albany, the prospects for the Queens casino appear promising. New York regulators are anticipated to announce decisions regarding the downstate licenses by the close of this year.
Additional Insights on the Casino Landscape
The evolving casino landscape in New York has sparked discussions on several fronts:
- Community engagement remains vital, with many residents advocating for measures to minimize potential negative impacts.
- The economic benefits of casino establishments, including job creation and increased tourism, continue to be points of contention.
- Future proposals must address concerns regarding gambling addiction and public safety.
In conclusion, while the Hard Rock Queens Casino project has received a vote of confidence from Senator Hoylman-Sigal, its ultimate approval hinges on the outcome of regulatory evaluations and community sentiment. The unfolding developments will be closely watched as they may reshape the gambling landscape in New York City.
