New York City Council Greenlights Ambitious Casino and Entertainment Complex Near Citi Field
In a significant leap forward for the proposed Metropolitan Park, the New York City Council voted overwhelmingly—41-2—in favor of a series of zoning changes aimed at establishing an $8 billion casino and entertainment complex adjacent to Citi Field in Queens. This historic vote marks the final step in the city’s Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP), paving the way for the ambitious project to move forward, although it still faces additional hurdles at the state level.
A Vision for Metropolitan Park
The Metropolitan Park project, spearheaded by Steve Cohen, the owner of the New York Mets, is designed to transform the area near Citi Field into a vibrant entertainment hub. The plans include not only the casino but also hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, and a sprawling 25-acre public park. According to project supporters, this massive undertaking is projected to generate approximately 23,000 jobs, contributing significantly to the local economy.
“It’s time the world’s greatest borough gets the investment it deserves,” Cohen emphasized in a statement following the vote. He also highlighted the anticipated improvements to local transit systems, which proponents argue are essential for boosting accessibility to the area and accommodating increased visitation.
A Focus on Employment and Community Health
Support for the project was robust among city officials and community representatives alike. Councilmember Francisco Moya, a prominent advocate, stated that the venture promises to provide “100% union jobs” during both its construction phase and in its ongoing operations. He expressed excitement about the project’s potential to convert “huge swaths of often vacant pavement into usable recreational space,” indicating a dual promise of economic and social benefits.
Community feedback has also played a pivotal role in shaping the project. During a four-hour public hearing led by Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, many attendees voiced their support. However, some community members did express apprehensions regarding potential environmental impacts and the risks of gambling addiction associated with the casino.
In response to these concerns, project backers have committed to offering addiction and mental health services within Flushing, which aligns with a broader investment of $25 million aimed at improving community healthcare in Queens. Additionally, the creation of a Community Impact Fund worth $163 million will support local nonprofit organizations, ensuring that the community benefits from the complex’s economic activities.
Legislative Challenges Ahead
Despite the significant local support, the project still faces challenges at the state level. State Senator Jessica Ramos, a Democrat from the area, has voiced her opposition to the casino, particularly concerning its potential impacts on the designated parkland. For the development to move forward, Ramos’s approval is essential, particularly as it concerns the designation known as "alienation," which allows parkland to be converted for commercial use.
Cohen’s spokesperson, Karl Rickett, reaffirmed the project’s commitment to securing the necessary designations, indicating a continued effort to address legislative roadblocks while reinforcing the importance of community engagement.
Looking to the Future
As the Metropolitan Park project vies for a casino license, it is one of 11 candidates competing for the honor of being among the first to bring a casino to the New York metropolitan area. Other contenders include proposals in locations like Coney Island, which will soon be under review by the city planning commission.
The state’s Gaming Facility Location Board oversees the casino siting process, with proposals due by June. A Community Advisory Committee composed of state and local officials will review these proposals, with three licenses expected to be awarded by the end of 2025.
The outcome of this venture is anticipated not only to reshape the local landscape of Queens but also to set a precedent for future developments in New York City. With job creation, community investments, and improvements to public infrastructure as its cornerstone principles, the project promises to deliver more than just economic returns; it seeks to enhance the quality of life in a borough rich in diversity and potential.
As discussions continue and the project navigates the intricate legislative landscape, the community remains hopeful that Metropolitan Park will fulfill its promise as a transformative addition to one of New York City’s most dynamic neighborhoods. The coming months are sure to be pivotal as both supporters and opponents of the project continue to voice their perspectives on this landmark initiative.
