New York Clears the Way for Three Major NYC Casinos
New York City is set to join the ranks of major U.S. gaming hubs as the New York State Gaming Commission formally approved three downstate casino licenses on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025. The decision followed a unanimous recommendation from the state’s Gaming Facility Location Board on Dec. 1 and concluded a multi-year review process involving project revisions, community advisory committee votes, and multiple layers of government approval.
The approved projects include Resorts World New York City in Queens, an expansion of the existing racino; Hard Rock Metropolitan Park, developed in partnership with Mets owner Steve Cohen next to Citi Field in Queens; and Bally’s Bronx, planned for the Ferry Point golf course. Resorts World and Bally’s were each awarded 15-year licenses, while Metropolitan Park received a 20-year license based on its financial commitment.
Officials say the three casinos will generate thousands of union jobs and provide a major boost to local economies, while compliance with community benefit commitments, minority- and women-owned business hiring, and other regulatory requirements will be closely monitored over the next five years.
Project backers are already celebrating. Mets owner Steve Cohen said the Metropolitan Park development will revitalize the area surrounding Citi Field and create a new sports and entertainment district. Genting Americas East, which operates Resorts World, expects the casino to begin full operations in early 2026 as New York City’s first full commercial casino. Bally’s Bronx project will bring additional gaming and entertainment options to the borough.
State officials project the three casinos will generate roughly $7 billion in gaming tax revenue from 2027 to 2036, plus nearly $6 billion in additional taxes, with each developer paying a $500 million license fee. With construction set to begin soon, New York is on track to deliver Vegas-style thrills with a distinctly NYC flavor.
