In a major step for New York’s gaming industry, the New York Gaming Facility Location Board (GFLB) has voted to recommend three downstate casinos for licensing. This decision clears the way for the final stage of approval by the New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC), with a decision expected by the end of December 2025.
The three casino proposals that made it through to the final round are Bally’s Bronx, Metropolitan Park, and Resorts World NYC. These bids have progressed from an initial pool of 11 applicants, narrowing down to four finalists before three were chosen to proceed. The proposed casinos would bring billions in private investment and create thousands of jobs in New York City, particularly in the boroughs of the Bronx and Queens.
Gov. Kathy Hochul has expressed support for the decision, stating, “The three projects approved today promise to unlock billions in funding for the MTA and create tens of thousands of jobs.” However, she emphasized that the developers must fulfill their promises. The NYSGC now has the responsibility to review and finalize the recommendations.
The Finalists and Their Proposed Investments
Bally’s proposed casino in the Bronx is one of the three finalists. Located on the former Trump Golf Links site at Ferry Point, this project is expected to require a $2.3 billion investment. If approved, Bally’s will pay $115 million to purchase the land from the Trump Organization. The casino plans include a full gaming floor, hospitality space, and various entertainment options. Bally’s is projecting nearly $400 million in annual tax revenue and 4,000 permanent jobs from this project.
Metropolitan Park’s proposal, led by Hard Rock, aims to create a large entertainment complex adjacent to Citi Field in Queens. This project involves a $5.3 billion investment and is expected to generate more than $1 billion annually in tax revenue while supporting over 6,000 permanent jobs. The site would feature a casino, hotel, concert venue, and additional public amenities. The project promises to transform the surrounding Willets Point area.
Resorts World NYC, which currently operates a video lottery terminal (VLT) casino at Aqueduct Racetrack, has proposed a $5.5 billion expansion to convert its facility into a full-scale commercial casino. This upgrade would allow the addition of table games like poker and blackjack. Resorts World expects its expansion to create 5,000 permanent jobs and contribute over $1 billion annually in tax revenue.
The Licensing Process and Community Impact
The board’s recommendation was not without controversy. As the decision approached, several applicants withdrew voluntarily, and questions were raised about potential competition between Metropolitan Park and Resorts World NYC, both based in Queens. Despite these concerns, the GFLB decided to recommend all three projects, citing the substantial community benefits and economic opportunities each proposal would bring.
Board chair Vicki Been defended the decision, saying, “No alternative scenarios produce comparable revenue or fiscal benefits. Each project proposes to deliver substantial community benefits, including infrastructure and transit improvements, local business partnerships, and significant commitments to community-based organisations.”
The total investment required for each project reflects the significant financial commitment involved, with each bidder required to pay at least $500 million in licensing fees and commit to at least $500 million in capital investment. This ensures that the projects will provide long-term economic benefits to New York City and the state.
Next Steps and Potential Challenges
Although the GFLB’s recommendations are a key milestone, the final decision rests with the NYSGC, which is expected to give its approval by the end of the year. The commission’s approval is anticipated, but some members have expressed concerns about the ambitious timelines of the proposed projects.
Construction timelines were a point of contention during the review process. All three applicants have proposed ambitious schedules, with Bally’s and Metropolitan Park aiming for a 2030 opening. Resorts World has revised its timeline, moving its expected opening up to March 2026.
Source:
New York Gaming Board votes to recommend licenses to operate three casinos in New York City, fox5ny.com, December 1, 2025.
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