Overview

• The Caesars Palace Times Square proposal at 1515 Broadway, backed by Roc Nation, SL Green and Caesars, went before the Community Advisory Committee for a second public hearing on Thursday.
• Jay-Z says a casino in the theater district would complement Times Square and strengthen Broadway by driving ticket sales, dining and hotel stays.
• Backers promote a $250 million community benefits package that includes $15 million for the surrounding area and 0.5% of casino profits, plus a $15 million civil-rights museum and $5 million for Callen-Lorde, according to the proposal.
• Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez says some commitments would be paid immediately upon licensing under written agreements, citing the $5 million pledge to Callen-Lorde.
• The Broadway League-led No Times Square Casino coalition continues to oppose the plan, citing risks to the neighborhood and the theater ecosystem.