3 New York City Casinos Earn Final Approval, Play Could Begin By March

By Bill Speros Dec 16th, 2025 12:39 PM EST

New York City's 3 casinos have received final regulatory approval. (Getty Images)

New York’s long, slow march toward full-scale casino gaming took a decisive step forward — and the effects are about to be felt across all 5 boroughs. State regulators on Monday granted final approval to 3 New York City Casinos. That clears the way for Las Vegas-style gambling to plant permanent roots in the Big Apple.

The New York State Gaming Commission signed off on $15 billion worth of projects in Queens (Metropolitan Park), the Bronx (Bally’s Corporation), and at Aqueduct Racetrack (Resorts World). The later could begin operating table games as early as March.

'Really Excited' About New York Future

"We're really excited" about approval in New York, said Elizabeth Suever, Vice President of Government Relations for Bally's, last week. She spoke at the Winter Meetings of the National Council of Legislators From Gaming States (NCLGS) in San Juan, Puerto Rico. "People of the Bronx want the chance to have economic development." Suever spoke at a panel focusing on the future of brick-and-mortar casinos.

Howard Glaser, Global Head Of Government Affairs at Light and Wonder, said at the same conference that the 3 New York City Casinos represent "the largest traditional brick-and-mortar expansion in U.S. history." And he noted that the approval process, which began 3 years ago, was quicker than many expected. "It's seven-year process to change the name of a street in New York," Glaser said.

In Queens and the Bronx, the message is clear: Casinos are no longer being pushed to the outskirts of the state. They’re moving directly into the Big Apple's core.

"Bally’s is betting on the Bronx. Having grown up in the city, it’s an honor and privilege to be selected by the Gaming Commission to receive a license,” Soo Kim, Chairman of Bally’s Corporation, said in a company statement. “Our team has worked closely with community leaders, union partners, and local stakeholders to build a project that delivers real jobs, lasting economic benefits, and a world-class entertainment destination for the Bronx. We are grateful for the Board’s confidence and look forward to delivering our project to the community.”

Steve Cohen's $8.1 Billion Development In Queens

For years, casino gaming in New York has lived on the margins. Gaming hid, confined to racinos, tribal properties, and a patchwork of limited offerings. That changes now. A new era dawns. Live table games, sportsbooks, and resort-style casinos becomes a part of daily life for millions of New Yorkers and commuters.

The largest and most closely watched project is an $8.1 billion development near Citi Field in Queens. New York Mets owner Steve Cohen backed the deal in partnership with Hard Rock. Roughly 50 acres of parking will transform into sprawling sports and entertainment district. All will be anchored by Hard Rock hotel and casino, restaurants, bars, live music, and a food hall highlighting local businesses. Roughly half of the site would be converted into public green space — a key selling point in winning community support.

Resorts World at Aqueduct Could Go Live In March

The expansion of Resorts World at Aqueduct Racetrack might be the first to go live. The operator already runs a slots-only facility there. Thus, the new venture gets a head start to add live dealer table games and expand its footprint quickly. For bettors in Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island, that could mean a fully operational casino just minutes from JFK Airport.

Henry Hill would be proud.

The third approval went to Bally’s, which plans to build a $4 billion casino at Ferry Point in the Bronx, on the site of the former Trump golf course. Bally’s will pay $115 million to take over the lease, adding yet another major gambling destination within city limits.

Gov. Kathy Hochul framed the approvals as an economic win, projecting billions in new revenue for public transportation and education, along with tens of thousands of jobs. Each license carries a $500 million fee, with proceeds earmarked in part for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

Gov. Hochul Promises Accountability

“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," Hochul added in a statement.

Not everyone is celebrating. Critics warn of increased traffic, environmental strain, and heightened risks of problem gambling, particularly in already dense neighborhoods. Still, after years of debate and failed proposals — including once-unthinkable plans for Times Square — New York has made its choice.

Casinos are coming to Gotham. And once they arrive, the New York-area gambling map will never look the same.

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