Published on: November 1, 2025, 03:57h.
Updated on: November 1, 2025, 03:57h.
- Queens casino aims to contribute $2.5 billion to MTA within the coming four years
- This surpasses the projected $1.8 billion in MTA support from three potential downstate casinos
- The increased projection is due to Resorts World New York’s anticipated opening as a full-scale casino
According to a recent estimate, Resorts World New York anticipates delivering $2.5 billion to New York’s Mass Transit Authority (MTA) over the next four years.
This estimate significantly exceeds the $1.8 billion the MTA projects to receive from the permit fees and taxes associated with three upcoming downstate casinos. The optimistic forecast from the Genting-operated venue is seen as a positive development amid skepticism about casinos alleviating MTA’s financial struggles.
“By paying a $600 million upfront licensing fee and projected tax contributions of $1.9 billion to the MTA over four years, RWNYC aims to generate $2.5 billion for the authority. The MTA expects $500 million from casinos in 2026, $500 million in 2027, $600 million in 2028, and $200 million in 2029, totaling $1.8 billion,” stated the operator of the Queens gaming establishment.
Resorts World New York is one of the final three contenders vying for the trio of downstate licenses, competing against Bally’s and Hard Rock International.
Resorts World NY Elevates Its Offer
Recently celebrating its 14th anniversary, Resorts World New York has made significant contributions to state and local taxes, positioning it well in pursuit of one of the sought-after downstate licenses.
Despite its frontrunner status, Genting is taking an assertive stance. The company has committed to a licensing fee of $600 million, exceeding the state’s requirement of $500 million, while also proposing increased gaming tax rates if awarded a downstate license. These factors could significantly influence the revised MTA contributions.
If approved to transition the Queens establishment into a full-scale casino, Genting plans to invest $5.5 billion in upgrades, not counting an additional $2 billion in community benefits. This investment is notably higher than what was allocated for the construction of Resorts World Las Vegas—its only property in the gambling hub.
Additional Advantages for Resorts NY Proposal
It could be argued that Resorts World New York doesn’t necessarily need to enhance its proposal for a New York City license due to several advantages it already possesses. This includes an anticipated launch date of March 2026 as a Las Vegas-style casino, contingent on the issuance of licenses by year’s end. Such a timeline suggests a faster accumulation of tax revenues for the city and state from the establishment.
Moreover, the venue is committing to increased financial support for educational initiatives and the New York Racing Association (NYRA).
“Beyond contributing to the MTA, RWNYC is also set to invest $2 billion in education and $0.5 billion to the NYRA to bolster the horse racing industry in New York. This aligns with the nearly $5 billion that RWNYC has contributed to the public education system since 2011, alongside substantial support for the equine sector that sustains tens of thousands of jobs,” Genting noted in their statement.