State Gaming Board Approves Licenses For 3 NYC Casino Sites

NEW YORK CITY — The New York State Gaming Commission on Monday approved licenses for three casino sites in New York City.

The commission approved gaming facilities licensing for the Hard Rock Metropolitan Park next to Citi Field, Bally’s in the Bronx and Resorts World New York City in Queens.

"The three approved casinos will generate billions of dollars for the MTA and education, create tens of thousands of jobs and deliver real benefits to their surrounding communities,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said on Monday in a statement.

“Each of the projects made significant commitments to their communities and to New York State, and the Gaming Commission was clear that they will hold these projects accountable and make sure they keep their promises.”

Bally's Bronx will have to pay $115 million to the Trump Organization as part of an agreement the two groups made in 2023. That is on top of the $60 million that Bally's already paid to buy the rights to operate at the location.

In addition, the $4 billion project would include a resort on 16 acres of land near the Whitestone Bridge.

Resorts World Queens, an estimated $5.5 million project — would expand the existing site at the Aqueduct Racetrack to include 800 gaming tables and 6,000 slot machines.

In addition, Resort Worlds has plans to build 2,000 hotel rooms, a new arena, more bars and restaurants, as well as a spa and day club. The project will also have 12-acres of public green space.

Metropolitan Park, backed by Mets owner Steve Cohen, is set to be located on the parking lots surrounding Citi Field.

The $8 billion project would include a Hard Rock resort and casino, a 25-acre public park, as well as new retail stores and restaurants.

In addition, the project would include a redevelopment of the Mets-Willets Point subway station, according to officials.

Each winning proposal is required to pay a $500 million license fee up front. The estimated $1.5 billion in license fees will go to the MTA.