Seven Applicants Selected for New York State Casino Licenses.
By Wednesday this week, the deadline for $1 million applications for a New York State casino license had passed, and there was no official announcement from the New York State Gaming Commission about the complete list of applicants. However, we can reveal that seven companies have publicly declared their interest in a casino license.
Previously, we reported that Caesars Entertainment had applied for a license to build a $750 million entertainment complex in Woodbury, Orange County, about 50 miles north of Manhattan. Today, it was announced that Genting Casinos will also be competing for one of the four available licenses.
Genting's Ambitions
The Genting Group, led by Malaysian billionaire Lim Kok Thay, operates casinos worldwide, including the UK, Hong Kong, Singapore, the Philippines, and the US. They are currently the largest land-based casino operator in the UK with 47 establishments. Genting Group is still searching for a suitable location for their casino in New York.
"We're excited to work with local municipalities and the state of New York to find a site where we can build a facility that will enhance the thriving tourism economy in the Empire State," said Christian Goode, Senior Vice President for Genting Americas.
Rochester-based Wilmorite Inc is another hopeful contender, aiming to build a $350 million casino, hotel, resort, and spa in Seneca County. Thrilled with his chances, Chairman Thomas Wilmot, Sr. declared, "We're definitely in it to win it," and added, "Our proposal will generate more money for New York state and local governments throughout the region than any of our competitors."
Wilmorite's Vision
Wilmore also plans to develop the Wilmot Casino and Resort in Tyr. "This project is full speed ahead," he affirmed. "Our proposal will also spur the greatest increase in tourism throughout the scenic Finger Lakes region."
Meanwhile, the owners of the Saratoga Casino and Raceway are considering challenging Caesars by pitching a proposal in Newburgh while also seeking a license for a full-scale casino in East Greenbush.
"It's an aggressive move," clarified president and spokesperson Rita Cox. "When you have two properties working together, you can provide more opportunities and benefits for team members and guests while succeeding in the localities and for the state. This is about growing our business."
Howe Caverns Proposal
The owners of Howe Caverns, a popular tourist attraction in Schoharie County, have also paid the application fee. They plan to collaborate with a casino operator to introduce gaming to their site. The proposed casino will not be located within the cave which is 156 feet underground but on the site itself.
"When the dust settles, we are confident that operators will see the incredible potential of our site, which is uniquely suited to be a destination location for families throughout the region," said Emil Galasso, President of Howe Caves Development Corp.
With over 150,000 visitors annually, Howe Caverns is located off Interstate 88, only a half-hour drive from the state capital, Albany.
Greenetrack, a casino owner, revealed earlier in the week that they had submitted their application fee for an Orange County casino license. They plan to build a 140-acre casino with 80,000 square feet of gaming space, a high-end hotel with 350 guest rooms, a convention center, and two restaurants. The company aims to invest approximately $400 million and create more than 2,500 jobs.
Empire Resorts, the company behind the Monticello Raceway racino in the Catskill Mountains, has also applied for a license. They want to construct a complex worth $750 million at the former Concord Resort in Monticello.
At present, there are seven established candidates out of an estimated 15 or 16. Expect an official announcement soon. We'll keep you up-to-date on the latest news.
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