Resorts World New York City (RWNYC) has introduced an ambitious $5.5 billion plan to convert its current facility in Queens into a comprehensive resort and entertainment venue. If approved, this project would stand out as the largest among the eight proposals submitted for one of the three available downstate casino licenses, according to officials.
On Monday, RWNYC presented its extensive plan to the Community Advisory Committee (CAC), featuring a 5.6 million-square-foot development on the 73-acre site known as Aqueduct. This project is highlighted as the most significant in terms of land area, construction space, and gaming floor size.
The comprehensive proposal encompasses 6,000 slot machines, 800 table games, 2,000 hotel rooms, a 7,000-seat arena, over 30 dining establishments, a spa, and sprawling green spaces spanning more than a dozen acres. Additionally, the operator has pledged to introduce more than 7,000 parking spaces to cater to future visitors.
“What the Community Advisory Committee encountered today was a visionary project that promises to be transformative for our borough, the city, and the state,” remarked Robert DeSalvio, president of Genting Americas East. “Since 2010, when Resorts World commenced operations at Aqueduct, our goal has been to be a commendable neighbor to Queens.”
RWNYC emphasized its contributions to New York’s economy, stating that since 2011, it has generated $4.5 billion for the state’s public education funds, $2 billion in tax revenues for the horse-racing sector, and $200 million for the state lottery. The operator predicts that, with a commercial license, the property could create as many as 24,000 jobs and generate hundreds of millions in extra tax revenue.
The company’s team, alongside celebrity chefs Marcus Samuelsson and Scott Conant—who plan to open eateries within the resort—highlighted the project’s readiness. All necessary land-use approvals are already in place, allowing construction to commence immediately upon receiving the license.
The project anticipates commencing operations by July 2026. “Regarding completion and operational risk, Resorts World New York City is uniquely positioned as a low-risk venture,” stated Kevin Jones, Chief Legal and Strategy Officer at the company.
In addition to its economic contributions, RWNYC underscored its dedication to community engagement. They have committed $50 million to create the Resorts World Innovation Campus, which will include a health and wellness center, a STEAM institute, and a development space for youth led by ex-NBA player Kenny “The Jet” Smith.
Through its philanthropic initiative, Resorts World Gives, the operator has contributed over $10 million towards local development projects. The casino is also reputed as the largest employer within the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council, boasting over 1,000 union jobs that average $80,000 in annual salary.
In collaboration with Cirrus Workforce Housing, RWNYC is financing the construction of up to 50,000 units of affordable housing throughout the city.
Resorts World is vying against several major players for the three downstate licenses, including MGM Resorts, SL Green along with Roc Nation and Caesars Entertainment, and a joint bid by New York Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International, who are presenting their own $8 billion project nearby. RWNYC’s proposal is distinctive as the largest in terms of land and scale.
The upcoming step involves the CAC voting on the proposal by September 30. The final verdicts from the New York Gaming Facility Location Board, including licensing approvals, are anticipated in December.