New York’s Casino Expansion Moves Toward Final Approval
New York’s Gaming Facility Location Board (GFLB) has advanced three major casino projects to the final approval stage, marking a significant step in the city’s gambling landscape.
The proposals, Bally’s Bronx casino at Ferry Point Park, Hard Rock’s Metropolitan Park near Citi Field, and Resorts World’s expansion in Queens, represent more than $17 billion in private investment. These ventures promise not only thousands of union construction jobs and permanent positions, but also billions in projected state tax revenue.
The Three Proposals
- The Bally’s Bronx project, valued at $4 billion, would redevelop the former Trump Golf Links site into a comprehensive entertainment destination with a casino, hotel, spa, rooftop bar, and food hall.
- Hard Rock’s $8.1 billion Metropolitan Park plan, supported by Mets owner Steve Cohen, proposes a casino complex with a 1,000-room hotel, retail space, and a 5,000-seat performance venue next to Citi Field.
- Resorts World, which currently operates a racino at Aqueduct, plans a $5 billion investment to expand into a full casino, adding table games, hotel accommodations, and new entertainment options.
Supporters state that these projects will provide long-term economic benefits, including $7 billion in gaming tax revenue from 2027 to 2036 and an additional $5.9 billion in other taxes. Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson has endorsed Bally’s proposal as a means to bring economic opportunity and reinvestment to underserved communities.
Critics remain active. Community groups and activists caution that expanded gambling may increase addiction, strain local infrastructure, and disrupt neighborhoods. At recent hearings, protesters expressed concerns about the social costs of casino development, especially in Queens, where opposition to Hard Rock’s project has been significant.
Offshore Online Casinos for U.S. Players
However, physical casinos are not the only option in NY and beyond. Real money gambling apps are increasingly popular among U.S. players. Licensed in jurisdictions such as Curaçao or Malta, these sites accept American users, even in states where gambling is restricted.
Offshore casinos offer:
- Access from anywhere in the U.S., regardless of state laws.
- Extensive game libraries, including thousands of slots and live dealer tables.
- High-value bonuses, often exceeding 250 percent deposit matches.
- Flexible banking options, including cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin deposits, and faster withdrawals.
However, offshore sites operate outside U.S. law, which limits player protections and requires caution. Experts recommend using well-licensed, independently audited platforms that provide genuine safeguards.
What’s Next For New York’s Casino Proposals?
The recommendations now move to the New York State Gaming Commission, which is expected to issue final licenses later this month. If approved, these casinos would be the first full-scale gambling facilities in New York City since voters authorized expansion in 2013, marking a new era for the state’s gaming industry.
As the city looks to compete with the endless online gambling options Americans can access, the state is putting its cards in one deck and hoping the experience and amenities will continue to draw in new players. The next logical step for the state of New York is to authorize and license online casinos. As the state explores additional revenue streams, online gambling apps will likely enter the discussion in the near future.