On Monday, a local advisory committee voted against the final remaining proposal for a Las Vegas-style casino in the city, effectively ending hopes for such a development in Manhattan.
The rejected plan, known as “Freedom Plaza,” was a six-acre project near the United Nations, spearheaded by Mohegan, a gaming enterprise operated by the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut. The committee, formed by the state, voted 4-2 against the proposal.
This decision follows similar rejections of two other casino bids last week: one for a Caesars Palace casino in Times Square backed by Jay-Z, and another for a resort in Hudson Yards. Separate local boards dismissed both due to community resistance.
In Monday’s vote, representatives appointed by Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams supported the Freedom Plaza initiative, but opposition from members representing local legislators ultimately led to its defeat.
William Fowler, speaking on behalf of Mayor Adams, expressed disappointment, stating that the decision wasn’t just a refusal of a casino, but also a missed opportunity for new housing, educational facilities, and billions in potential investment for Manhattan.
Who Will Get The NYC Casino Licenses?
After the rejection of all Manhattan-based proposals, five major bids are still bidding for the NYC casino licenses:
Bally’s Bronx at Ferry Point
- $4 billion resort proposal
- Backed by Mayor Eric Adams
- Faces local opposition but has survived key procedural challenges
MGM Empire City in Yonkers
- $2.3 billion expansion of an existing racino
- Strong local support and speed-to-market advantage
- It could be converted into a full-scale casino quickly
Resorts World New York City at Aqueduct Racetrack (Queens)
- $5.5 billion proposal by Genting Group
- Already operating as a racino
- Promises 5,000 permanent jobs and $2.2 billion in revenue by 2027
Metropolitan Park at Citi Field (Queens)
- Proposed by Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International
- Includes housing, green space, and entertainment venues
- Faces zoning and community hurdles
The Coney (Brooklyn)
- $3.4 billion beachfront casino by Thor Equities
- Facing strong opposition from local officials and Luna Park advocates
- Likely to be rejected by its Community Advisory Committee
Are online casinos legal in New York?
No, online casinos are not currently allowed to operate in the state. While there are several state-licensed gambling options in New York, only sportsbooks are presently allowed to operate online.
However, there are no state or federal gambling laws that make gambling online illegal; therefore, 18 and up players from the state of NY can wager online with no risk of legal punishment.
When Will The NYC Casino Licenses Be Awarded?
The New York City casino licenses are expected to be awarded by December 1, 2025.