A proposed casino project in the bustling heart of Times Square is facing pushback from various Broadway stakeholders and local community organizations, prompting the theater community to organize a rally on Wednesday. This demonstration occurred just before the formal bid submission deadline for the redevelopment, which concluded last Friday.

The proposed development aims to create Caesars Palace Times Square at 1515 Broadway, sparking discussions about its likely economic and social effects. Advocates for the project argue that it could generate billions in tax income, create thousands of jobs, and enhance public safety via private funding.

The developers have pledged to fully finance the project privately and officially submitted their bid proposal on Friday.

Broadway community reacts

Members of the Broadway League, an organization for theater owners and producers, protested Wednesday outside the proposed location, stating that a casino could detrimentally impact the theater district.

“Times Square does not need a casino. We’ve never needed it to revive Broadway,” expressed Jason Laks, president of the Broadway League. “This could trigger a crisis for Broadway, jeopardizing our theaters and communities.”

Broadway artist Lachanze echoed these worries: “Introducing a casino in this area right now would create chaos and undermine our efforts to revitalize Broadway.”

The proposed casino plan reportedly includes an on-site Broadway theater, potentially earmarked for a long-running show like The Lion King. Laks criticized this angle, stating: “They aim to monetize what we’ve spent years establishing.”

Resident opinions

Mark Jennings, director of Project Find, which assists senior citizens in Midtown, noted that an informal survey revealed significant opposition to the proposal among elderly residents.

“Feedback from older adults in our building showed they detest it due to the anticipated congestion and the risk of increased crime,” Jennings stated. “They foresee this as a massive disaster.”

Supporters assert that Times Square’s established reputation as a tourist destination makes it a fitting location for a casino. According to the development team, the venue will be privately financed and is projected to generate significant tax revenues for both the city and state.

A demonstration endorsing the casino project took place on Thursday, led by groups advocating for its economic benefits and job creation.