In a landmark decision that will reshape the city's entertainment landscape, New York has granted licences for its first three Las Vegas-style resort casinos. The winning sites are located far from Manhattan's tourist core and include the New York Mets' ballpark in Queens, a Bronx golf course once run by former President Donald Trump's company, and a slot machine parlour near John F. Kennedy International Airport.
The Winning Proposals and Formal Approval
The New York State Gaming Commission made the long-awaited announcement on Monday 15 December 2025 during a meeting at a riverside park in upper Manhattan. The panel approved the three projects with a significant condition: each company must appoint an independent external monitor. This overseer will ensure compliance with state law and that the firms deliver on their extensive promises of community investment.
Brian O'Dwyer, the commission's chair, stated the state eagerly anticipates the jobs, infrastructure upgrades, and gaming revenue the projects have pledged. The decision, while momentous, was partly a formality. Millions in anticipated gambling revenues are already factored into the state's budget, and a separate vetting board had recommended awarding licences to all three remaining proposals earlier in the month.
Billions in Revenue and Notable Omissions
The state's Gaming Facility Location Board provided a robust economic justification for approving three casinos in relatively close proximity. Consultants conservatively estimated the trio will generate a combined $7 billion in gambling tax revenues between 2027 and 2036. This is on top of $1.5 billion in licensing fees and nearly $6 billion in state and local taxes.
The approved projects triumphed over several high-profile competitors that faltered during the intense competition. Three proposed Manhattan casinos, including a Caesars Palace in Times Square backed by rapper Jay-Z, were rejected by local community boards. A plan for a resort on Brooklyn's iconic Coney Island boardwalk was defeated by local opposition, and MGM Resorts abruptly withdrew from the contest despite having local support.
Reactions and a Trump Windfall
The decision elicited strong reactions. Democratic New York Governor Kathy Hochul praised the projects, highlighting their potential to unlock billions for the state's transit system and create thousands of jobs. However, opponents warn that easier access to casinos will exacerbate gambling addiction rates. During the meeting, a handful of protesters opposed to billionaire Mets owner Steve Cohen's casino plan stood and shouted, "You picked a billionaire over New Yorkers! Shame on you!" before walking out.
Monday's ruling also means a substantial financial windfall is likely for the Trump Organization. When Bally's purchased the operating rights for the city-owned Ferry Point golf course from Trump's company in 2023, it agreed to pay an additional $115 million if it secured a casino licence. The Trump Organization has not yet commented on the expected bonus payment.
This expansion follows a 2013 statewide referendum that authorised up to three casino licences for the New York City area. Currently, New York has four full casinos with table games, all located upstate, and nine gambling halls without live tables, many also distant from Manhattan.
