Published on: December 15, 2025, 03:32h.
Updated on: December 15, 2025, 03:32h.
- Casino licenses for downstate New York have been granted
- Two casinos are located in Queens, while the third is in the Bronx
- No casino operations are planned for Manhattan
More than twelve years following the approval of a constitutional amendment by New York voters to allow three downstate casinos, gaming licenses encompassing slot machines, table games, and sports betting rights have finally been issued.
On Monday, the New York State Gaming Commission formalized the downstate license process by awarding concessions to Bally’s Bronx, Metropolitan Park, and Resorts World New York City. This was made possible by a constitutional amendment favored by voters in 2013, which initially allowed for four upstate casinos and three downstate. The issuance of downstate licenses was postponed for a decade to enable upstate venues to establish their customer bases without local competition.
Bally’s Bronx represents a significant $2.3 billion investment at the city-owned Bally’s Golf Links at Ferry Point. The Metropolitan Park project, spearheaded by Hard Rock and billionaire Steve Cohen, is a massive $5.3 billion initiative. Genting aims to invest $3.3 billion to transform its racino into a destination akin to those in Las Vegas.
These development costs are distinct from substantial initial licensing fees ranging from $500 million to $600 million. Furthermore, the capital budgets are separate from promised community benefits. Additionally, Bally’s must pay The Trump Organization $115 million, which is part of acquiring the golf management contract from the president’s family firm in 2023.
State Advisory
With gaming licenses secured, Bally’s Bronx, Metropolitan Park, and Resorts World can now proceed to finalize their construction strategies and commence building. Although the three ventures have received full approval, Gaming Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer warned that they will be monitored closely during the process.
“Rest assured that this commission takes our oversight responsibilities seriously,” O’Dwyer stated.
An independent, government-appointed inspector will supervise each downstate casino project to ensure that every license holder adheres to their community commitments and application conditions.
Governor Kathy Hochul (D) remarked, “Today’s action by the New York State Gaming Commission marks the end of a multi-year, community-centric process aimed at ensuring casino licenses are awarded to proposals with local support, clear community advantages, and sustainable economic strategies.”
“The three endorsed casinos will not only raise billions for the MTA and educational initiatives but will also create tens of thousands of job opportunities and provide tangible benefits to their surrounding neighborhoods. Each project has made firm commitments to their communities and to New York State, and the Gaming Commission will ensure these projects are held accountable to fulfill their promises. This is what New Yorkers expect and deserve,” the Governor added.
Influence on Atlantic City
The establishment of downstate New York casinos will offer residents of New York City and Long Island, as well as those in Northern New Jersey, more accessible gambling locations compared to the lengthy trip to Atlantic City. Legislators in New Jersey may contemplate enabling a casino, or at least slot machines, in North Jersey, with the Meadowlands estate as a potential site.
New Jersey Sen. Joe Pennacchio (R-Morris, Passaic) plans to propose legislation next month allowing casinos at state racetracks. His proposal will earmark part of the revenue generated by a North Jersey casino to support Atlantic City.