Queens Casino Initiative in Jeopardy as Ramos Shows Resistance to Gambling Establishment
Efforts by New York Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International to establish a casino hotel near Citi Field could be at risk after State Senator Jessica Ramos (D-Queens) declared she won't support legislation to modify the parkland status of Willets Point to enable a gaming venue.
Taking into account the views of both local business leaders and residents who supported and opposed the $8 billion Metropolitan Park plan proposed by Cohen, Ramos stated that it's clear locals desire more green spaces and recreational areas. However, she doesn't believe they should accept a casino as a means to achieve those features. Nevertheless, she suggested a bill that would revoke the parkland status of Willets Point, enabling Cohen and Hard Rock to construct a convention center and hotel there instead.
In her statement, Ramos proposed an alternative piece of legislation which would allow Cohen and Hard Rock to develop a convention center and hotel while increasing the amount of open green space to more than twice the initial proposal. She stated, "The site in question is positioned strategically close to LaGuardia Airport, which would attract tourists and visitors to our thriving culinary scene, as well as address the implications of climate change in the area. Mr. Cohen and Hard Rock will still generate a profit, although less so."
Cohen had been striving to win over New York politicians and donating to prominent Democrats, such as Governor Kathy Hochul (D) and New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D), to promote transforming Willets Point into an entertainment destination with a casino.
The Fate of Queens' Project Hangs in the Balance
Uncertainty looms in the air as to whether Cohen and Hard Rock will proceed with Metropolitan Park in the absence of a casino.
During the New York City-area casino bidding process, several competitors have warned city officials that they wouldn't have alternative plans if denied gaming licenses, thus unlikely to proceed with their proposed casino sites.
This situation probably applies to Willets Point, which might otherwise remain idle land for decades should no casino be built there.
While Ramos' attempt to seek a compromise by preserving the parkland status of Willets Point without a casino is admirable, and her introduction of Senate Bill S9747 (SB S9747) is well-intentioned, these measures might not be sufficient to prevent the area from remaining undeveloped for an extended period.
Potential Winners in Cohen and Hard Rock's Potential Failed Endeavor
In the event that Cohen and Hard Rock decide to drop their plans for the Metropolitan Park due to the casino being excluded, one could see potential winners emerging.
If Cohen and Hard Rock leave the competition, Genting, operators of Resorts World New York in Queens, could benefit as this decision could dissuade regulators from allowing two integrated resorts in the same borough.
Additionally, Las Vegas Sands could gain from the death of Metropolitan Park, as there have been speculations, albeit unconfirmed, that Hofstra University affiliates had interfered with Hard Rock's plans for a casino hotel at Nassau Hub in Uniondale.
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