New York City Council voted to approve zoning changes to Metropolitan Park’s $8 billion development plan, which includes a Hard Rock Casino next to the Mets’ Citi Field. The project has been spearheaded by Mets owner Steve Cohen.
The proposal had gained momentum during a December hearing, in which Queens Borough President, Donovan Richards, would likely be in favor of the Metropolitan Park project. That appeared so, as City Council voted 41-2 in favor of the proposal.
In addition to the casino, the project would consist of shops, restaurants, a Taste of Queens food hall and more in the 25-acre public park.
‘Investing’ into community a big reason for approval
Downstate casinos are expected to re-develop parts of New York to include plenty of entertainment for residents and visitors. However, that’s not necessarily the big picture for the project.
Council Member Francisco Moya voted in favor of the proposal, to be able to give back to the city. He said in a statement after the vote on Tuesday:
“I’m proud to support this transformative project and help make it a reality for our district, for Queens, and for the entire city.
“This project is about more than building a sports and entertainment park. It’s about creating meaningful job opportunities with 100% union jobs, investing back into our community, and elevating our local economy to unprecedented heights.”
Back in December, Michael “Sully” Sullivan, Cohen’s chief of staff, told Richards that the development plans could create 23,000 jobs, between permanent and temporary roles. Sullivan added that he expected around 6,100 of those to be temporary, related to the construction of the various developments.
Cohen also mentioned the job force in his statement, along with giving back to the community:
“Metropolitan Park will deliver 25 acres of vibrant public park space, 23,000 well-paying union jobs, and much-needed transit upgrades. It’s time the world’s greatest borough gets the investment it deserves.”
Competition for third and final license
It’s expected that two of the three downstate casino licenses are going to be handed to existing racinos. There is plenty of competition for the last license to be offered.
The Hudson Yards proposal, with a Wynn Resorts, released a rendering of its $12 billion project over the summer. In addition to a casino, restaurants and shops, the plan calls for 1,500 housing units, too.
The Coney, another competing proposal, also has plans of brining a casino to revitalize the Brooklyn section of New York. It is targeting a five-acre plot near the corners of Surf and Stillwell avenues. Earlier this year, the project pledged $200 million for a community trust if it receives a license.
Talks of a Caesars Palace in Times Square have been ongoing since 2022, which have had mixed reactions. Bally’s threw its hat in the ring for a casino in Bronx last year, too, adding to the competition.
Either way, a casino in the New York City section would have a major impact on the economy. Which group is granted the license remains to be seen.
