The Sierra Club Long Island Group, an environmentalist organization, has joined the list of objectors to Las Vegas Sands’ proposal to build a casino in Uniondale. Sands is one of several gambling companies looking to make a bid this year for one of three available downstate casino licenses.
The Sierra Club cites concerns over the “environmental impact” of a casino for its call for an independent environmental review on the project.
Las Vegas Sands has proposed a $4 billion+ project to develop a resort, gambling, and entertainment complex at the site of the Nassau Coliseum. The Coliseum was formerly the home of the New York Islanders of the National Hockey League and Brooklyn Nets of the National Basketball Association.
Other institutions and organizations that oppose a casino at Nassau Coliseum include:
- Hofstra University
- Village of Garden City
- Say No to the Casino Civic Association
- National Council on Problem Gambling
- Thousands of citizens who have signed petitions
Why there is opposition for Nassau County casino
Opponents of the casino list crime, traffic, addiction, environmental injustice, economic injustice, higher taxes, and lower home values as among the primary reasons for opposing a casino in Nassau County.
In a statement to the media earlier this month, The Sierra Club Long Island expressed their feelings.
“The Sierra Club Long Island group agrees with the growing number of residents, as well as the courts, who are demanding that the process slow down and allow for an independent environmental review of the LVS proposal. The Sierra Club supports the effort to preserve the balance of nature and responsible growth on Long Island.”
The state of New York could award as many three licenses for downstate casinos. The Nassau plan from Sands is one of 11 applicants and projects submitted. While state regulators have yet to grant licenses, opponents like Sierra Club feel the process has been too hasty.
“The Sierra Club Long Island group agrees with the growing number of residents, as well as the courts, who are demanding that the process slow down and allow for an independent environmental review of the LVS proposal. [We support] the effort to preserve the balance of nature and responsible growth on Long Island.”
Hofstra University, which has the bulk of its campuses nearby the Nassau Coliseum location, has already taken legal action to show its opposition to a casino project. In 2023, the university sued Nassau County to challenge a deal made between politicians and Las Vegas Sands that it said was done in secret and without oversight. Hofstra won that claim, which struck down a proposed 99-year lease between Sands and the county.
