Particle.news
Download on the App Store
13 ARTICLES
·
1h ago

MGM Empire City in Yonkers Becomes First Downstate Casino Bid to Clear Community Panel

The unanimous Yonkers vote propels the racino’s $2.3 billion expansion to state review, underscoring the decisive power of neighborhood committees in the licensing race.

Image
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • Yonkers’ Community Advisory Committee voted 5–0 to advance MGM Empire City’s application for a full casino license, the first downstate proposal to win local approval.
  • Plans call for converting the existing racino into a full casino with 183 live dealer tables, 14 restaurants and bars, a 5,000-seat venue, and a $2.3 billion build with added infrastructure investments.
  • MGM projects more than $50 million a year for Yonkers in taxes and revenue and pledged a small-business support fund and traffic and drainage improvements, including a $100 million commitment.
  • The approval follows CAC rejections of three Manhattan bids—Caesars Times Square, The Avenir at Hudson Yards, and Freedom Plaza near the U.N.—where governor and mayor appointees backed projects but local appointees voted no.
  • The Yonkers bid now goes to the Gaming Facility Location Board before the State Gaming Commission, with final license awards expected as soon as late 2025 and some reporting a possible shift to January 2026; a Queens vote on Resorts World is scheduled for later Thursday, with other Queens, Brooklyn, and Bronx proposals still pending.