In the cityscape of New York, the Bronx's casino plan rejection sparks competition as Empire City steps up in the casino competition race.
In the race for one of New York's three downstate commercial casino licenses, Empire City Casino, operated by MGM Resorts, stands as a frontrunner following the rejection of Bally's project in the Bronx.
MGM's bid for the license boasts several significant advantages. Politically, the casino enjoys popular support, financially it is strong, and the site is ready for immediate development, with existing video lottery terminals and automated table games. This allows for a quick conversion to a full casino with minimal construction.
MGM has also invested over $1 billion into the Empire City site in Westchester, making it an attractive and low-risk option for regulators seeking certainty and fast results. However, there is speculation that regulators might favor new operators to maximize tax revenue and development excitement.
Despite this, if the state prioritizes certainty and quick results over novelty, Empire City holds a strong position to secure one license.
Empire City Casino is located in Yonkers, not the Bronx as the proposed Bally's project was. The opposition to the Bally's project was due to a lack of a clear public benefit, which was a concern shared by residents and Community Board 10. The rejection of the Bally's project does not seem to have affected Empire City's standing, as it remains a key contender for the downstate license.
Other bids include Resorts World New York City at Aqueduct Racetrack, also an existing licensed racino proposing a major resort project. As of now, no new information indicates any change in Empire City's status as a top contender for the downstate license.
Reported by Charlotte Capewell.
[1] Sources: [Link 1], [Link 3]
Las Vegas-style casino culture is increasingly being brought to upstate New York, with Empire City Casino, operated by MGM Resorts, showcasing its Vegas-inspired casino-games and casino-culture. Various casino personalities involved in the casino's development, coupled with its existing viability in Yonkers, make it a strong frontrunner for the downstate casino-and-gambling license.
