In a significant legislative move, the State Assembly has passed a bill that paves the way for Steve Cohen's proposed casino at Citi Field. This decision not only impacts the future of sports entertainment in New York but also raises questions about the economic implications for the region.
In a landmark decision that could reshape New York’s entertainment landscape, the State Assembly approved a critical bill on June 10, 2024, advancing Mets owner Steve Cohen’s ambitious plan to build a casino near Citi Field. The legislation, which passed with bipartisan support, clears regulatory hurdles for the $8 billion development, promising economic revitalization for Queens while sparking debates over gambling expansion and community impact.
The newly passed bill grants Cohen’s group, New Green Willets, the necessary zoning permissions and gaming license eligibility to proceed with the 50-acre entertainment complex. The project, dubbed “Metropolitan Park,” includes:
“This vote represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform underutilized land into a thriving economic engine,” said Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas, who sponsored the bill. “We’re projecting 15,000 permanent jobs and $1.2 billion in annual tax revenue once fully operational.”
Proponents highlight the project’s potential to boost Queens’ post-pandemic recovery. A 2023 study by the New York Economic Development Corporation estimates the casino could:
However, community activists remain divided. “We’re trading short-term gains for long-term social costs,” warned Dr. Evelyn Chen, director of the Queens Anti-Gambling Initiative. “Areas within 5 miles of casinos see a 34% higher rate of gambling addiction, according to NYU research.”
The bill’s passage follows months of intense lobbying from both sides. Cohen’s team spent $4.2 million on advocacy efforts in 2023 alone, state records show, while opposition groups like “No Casino Queens” mobilized over 12,000 petition signatures.
Key compromises in the final legislation include:
With Assembly approval secured, the focus shifts to:
Cohen remains optimistic: “We’ve worked tirelessly to create a model for responsible development that gives back to the community. Today’s vote proves that vision resonates.”
This decision comes as New York considers three downstate casino licenses, with fierce competition from Manhattan and Yonkers proposals. Industry experts suggest Cohen’s Queens location—accessible to 8 million residents via the 7 train—gives it a competitive edge.
“The Citi Field site checks every box,” said gaming analyst Mark Russo. “Proximity to mass transit, existing entertainment infrastructure, and Cohen’s deep pockets make this the frontrunner.”
As the project advances, all eyes will be on whether this gamble pays off for Queens residents and sets a new standard for urban casino development nationwide.
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