City Council controversially supports Bally's special jurisdiction petition, overriding a local representative's objections
In the race for one of the three downstate New York casino licenses, Donald Trump's Bally's Bronx Casino proposal is among eight finalists vying for a highly sought-after license [1][4]. This competitive landscape, which includes the New York City area, has seen intense competition since the licensing process began.
The downstate casino licenses were authorized by New York State in 2022 and opened for applications in early 2023. Initially, about a dozen bidders expressed interest; however, after some dropped out—including major players like Wynn Resorts and Related Companies—eight remain: The Avenir, Caesars Times Square, Freedom Plaza, Bally’s Bronx Casino, Metropolitan Park, MGM Empire City, Resorts World New York City, and The Coney [1][4].
These applicants must obtain zoning approval, community advisory committee endorsement, and meet strict investment criteria, including a minimum $1 billion total investment [1][2]. Local community advisory committees, consisting of state and local representatives, have veto power and must approve bids by September 30, 2025. The New York Gaming Facilities Location Board, responsible for the final license awards, will review bids based on economic benefits, site readiness, and community support, aiming to finalize licensees by December 1, 2025 [2][4].
Bally’s Bronx Casino is a prominent contender, leveraging the Trump brand alongside substantial investment plans. As one of only eight finalists, Bally’s faces competition but also potential advantages due to brand recognition and strategic backing. Community support and local government endorsements remain crucial, which the bid team must secure to avoid veto from advisory committees.
If successful, Bally’s would be positioned to capitalize on a lucrative, largely untapped market in New York City, potentially generating significant economic activity and jobs. Given the state's insistence on strong community backing and investment, the proposal must also assure stakeholders of benefits beyond the casino itself, including possible urban development or ancillary projects.
Recently, the New York City Council granted the local approval needed for a casino to be built on parkland at Ferry Point in the Bronx. The home rule resolution for the Bally's casino passed the committee in a 5-4 vote, but it was uncertain whether the council would gather the necessary 26 votes in support during the afternoon meeting [3]. The vote of the full council, which approved the home rule message, landed 32 votes in favor, 12 votes against, and seven abstentions [5].
Mayor Adams' office granted Bally's request for a message of support to maintain a competitive casino environment in New York City. However, a spokesperson for Mayor Adams asserted that the mayoral message of support for the Bally's casino bid was not influenced by Trump's potential benefit [6]. If awarded a license, Bally's casino proposal would provide an additional $115 million to the Trump Organization [7].
Council Member Kristy Marmorato sharply criticized the efforts of Bally's in the process. Despite this, City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams emphasized the council's commitment to a fair process that brings good-paying union jobs and economic boosts to the community, regardless of which proposal is selected [8].
The race for the downstate New York casino licenses remains highly competitive, with the assumption that two existing downstate racinos have the best shot at two of those licenses [9]. As the deadline for local community advisory committee endorsements approaches, the finalists, including Bally's Bronx Casino, will continue to vie for support and approval to secure their place among the winners to be announced by year-end 2025.
Sources:
- Crain's New York Business
- New York State Gaming Commission
- The City
- The Wall Street Journal
- The City
- The City
- The City
- The City
- The Wall Street Journal
- The race for the downstate New York casino licenses is intensifying, with casino-and-gambling powerhouses like Bally's Bronx Casino proposing big-wins for the city's casino-culture.
- In this competition, Bally's is relying on the Trump brand, strategic backing, and responsible-gambling measures to secure their casino-personalities position among potential winners.
- Casinos in sports-rich cities like New York are also venture into sports-betting, adding another dimension to the gambling-trends landscape.
- As the race progresses, lotteries and casino-games could witness innovation, particularly with the development of urban infrastructure and ancillary projects.
- Grasping the opportunity to capitalize on a lucrative market, applicants must ensure their proposals deliver not only casino riches but also contribute positively to the community's economic and social welfare.
- With local community advisory committees wielding the power to veto bids, it is crucial for casino developers to gain community support and maintain open dialogue in shaping casino-culture in the city.
