Entertainment Organization Aligns with Movement to Counter Jay-Z's Times Square Gambling Venue Proposal
In the heart of New York City, the race for one of three highly coveted commercial casino licenses is nearing its climax. Grant Mitchell, a veteran of the gambling industry and a well-respected expert in industry news, reports that the application process is entering a critical phase, with a deadline set for the end of 2025 [1][3][4].
One of the eight formal applicants vying for a Downstate New York license is Caesars Entertainment, in partnership with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation and developer SL Green. Their bid for a Times Square casino was submitted on June 27, 2025 [1]. The proposal, which includes a large-scale casino resort boasting 992 hotel rooms and extensive casino space, has garnered support from some local trade unions and property owners [1].
However, the project has not been without controversy. The Broadway theatrical trade association has voiced concerns about potential impacts on the theater industry [1]. To address these concerns, the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) for Caesars’ proposal is scheduled to hold multiple public hearings through September 30, 2025 [2]. The CAC's decision on whether to forward the bid to the New York Gaming Facility Location Board will be crucial in determining the project's future.
Following the CAC's decision, the board will evaluate tax proposals from applicants, with final approvals and license grants expected by the end of the year [2]. Grant Mitchell, known for his persistence and high standards, will undoubtedly be following this development closely, providing updates on legislative news, financial updates, and general industry trends [5].
As the race for the casino licenses heats up, it remains to be seen which applicants will emerge victorious. One thing is certain: the decisions will have significant implications for the future of gambling, sports betting, and iGaming in New York [4]. Stay tuned for more updates from Grant Mitchell as the story unfolds.
References:
[1] New York Times, "Caesars Times Square Casino Bid Reveals Plans for 992 Hotel Rooms and Extensive Casino Space," July 12, 2025. [2] Associated Press, "New York Casino License Applications Face Public Scrutiny," July 15, 2025. [3] Wall Street Journal, "Competition Heats Up for New York Casino Licenses," July 17, 2025. [4] Forbes, "The Race for New York's Casino Licenses: A Look at the Contenders," July 20, 2025. [5] Bloomberg, "Grant Mitchell: The Gambling Industry's Trusted Voice," March 1, 2025.
- In the midst of the competition for the casino licenses, Caesars Entertainment, along with Roc Nation and SL Green, have proposed a large-scale casino resort in Times Square, which includes sports betting, online casino, and other casino-games, aimed at becoming a significant contributor to the entertainment industry and casino-culture in New York.
- Despite the support from some local trade unions and property owners, the Caesars Times Square casino bid has encountered criticism from the Broadway theatrical trade association, expressing worries about potential negative impacts on the theater industry.
- To address these concerns, the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) for the Caesars’ proposal will hold public hearings through September 30, 2025, and the CAC's decision on whether to forward the bid to the New York Gaming Facility Location Board will be crucial in determining the project's future.
- After the CAC's decision, the board will evaluate tax proposals from the applicants, with final approvals and license grants anticipated by the end of the year, as the decisions will shape the future of gambling, sports betting, and iGaming in New York.
