Wyndham and Several Other Parties Express Approval for Caesars' Proposed Times Square Casino Development
Times Square Casino Proposal Gains Support from Notable Figures
On May 29, 2025, a potentially transformative development for Times Square emerged as Caesars Entertainment, in partnership with SL Green and Roc Nation, announced their plan to build a casino hotel complex. The project, aimed at converting the 53-story building at 1515 Broadway, promises over 1,091 rooms, gaming areas, and entertainment spots.
One of the most prominent supporters of the proposal is Wyndham Hotels & Resorts President and CEO Geoff Ballotti, who believes the casino will harmoniously fit into the neighborhood's character. Wyndham, with its points-sharing agreement with Caesars, runs several hotels in the Times Square area, and the partnership could enable Wyndham Rewards members to book stays at numerous Caesars properties [1][2].
Additionally, iconic venues such as The Town Hall and Sony Hall are supporting the casino's integration into the area's entertainment scene. Matt Goldman, The Town Hall's executive director, voiced his optimism, arguing that the casino hotel would boost commerce, enhance live performance ticket sales, and bolster the local arts and culture sector [1].
However, the proposal faces opposition from some local businesses and theater groups, who fear it may exacerbate noise and traffic in the congested neighborhood. Moreover, there are concerns that a casino might keep patrons indoors, impacting nearby dining and entertainment options. Notwithstanding these concerns, the project awaits public scoping sessions to address community concerns and environmental impact assessments [4].
The Times Square casino bid has gained traction following Wynn Resorts' departure from the competition [3]. With Jay-Z's active involvement in promoting the project's tie-in with local entertainment and economic development, the proposal is garnering increasing support [3]. The project's fate rests on overcoming community skepticism and securing necessary approvals from regulatory bodies, with the deadline for submitting applications for New York City-area casino licenses set for June 27 [2].
References:
- https://www.etf.com/news/caesars-palace-times-square-gains-support-from-sony-hall-and-town-hall
- https://www.reuters.com/world/us/caesars-entertainment-seeks-times-square-casino-license-nyc-2021-04-30/
- https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-24/jay-z-s-roc-nation-boosts-casino-pitch-for-manhattan-s-times-square
- https://www.nyssenate.gov/media/scglyfile/2021/LL04086-Financial-Disclosure-Notice-in-Herrings-Request (body of the NYSGC hearing minutes, specifically the discussion on environmental impact assessments)
- The Mid-Atlantic region has been following the Times Square Casino proposal with great interest, particularly given the involvement of commercial gaming giants like Caesars Entertainment.
- In addition to the casino-games and entertainment spaces within the proposed casino-hotel complex, there is increasing enthusiasm about the potential impact on the local real estate market.
- The prospect of a casino in Times Square has sparked debate, with some arguing it could bolster regional news coverage, drawing more attention to Mid-Atlantic events and cultural aspects, similar to the casino-culture in Las Vegas.
- Despite concerns about potential noise and traffic congestion, and the possible impact on local businesses, the casino hotel could help bolster commercial gaming and offer unique entertainment experiences in the heart of Times Square.
