Casino executive at Resorts World NYC discusses proposed expansion of Queens casino, as captured on video footage.

In a significant development in the race for one of the three coveted downstate casino licenses in New York, Empire City Casino in Yonkers, operated by MGM Resorts, has emerged as the frontrunner. This strong position came about following the New York City Council's rejection of Bally's Bronx casino plan due to concerns about its viability.

Empire City's bid has garnered the support of Bronx authorities and local stakeholders, as it offers a shovel-ready alternative that benefits the Bronx economy. The bid aims to employ numerous Bronx residents and contract with local vendors.

Meanwhile, Resorts World New York City (RWNYC), operated by Genting New York LLC, has submitted a separate, ambitious $5.5 billion expansion proposal for its existing casino in Queens. The goal is to transform RWNYC into the largest fully integrated casino resort in the state.

The proposed expansion includes a massive 5.6 million-square-foot resort on 73 acres. It features 6,000 slot machines and 800 table games, 2,000 hotel rooms, a 7,000-seat arena, over 30 restaurants and bars, more than 7,000 parking spaces, a luxury spa, and over a dozen acres of public green space. The project is targeted to open as early as mid-2026 and has gained significant political backing.

Robert DeSalvio, the man behind the bid, recently gave his first interview to News 12's Senior Reporter Tara Rosenblum. The meeting, attended by Tara Rosenblum and Lee Danuff, reporters from News 12, took place in New York City. The bid is from one of the frontrunners for the downstate casino license and is a significant step forward in the race.

In summary, Empire City Casino is the leading bidder backed by the Bronx community and officials, while Resorts World New York City proposes a major expansion of its existing Queens casino as part of its bid for a downstate license. The community advisory board recently met for the first time to review the $5 billion bid for a downstate casino license.

EmpireCity Casino's bid, backed by the Bronx community and officials, presents a casino-games-focused alternative that aims to benefit the local economy and employ numerous Bronx residents. On the other hand, Resorts World New York City's ambitious expansion proposal includes a diverse range of casino-and-gambling offerings, such as over 6,000 slot machines and 800 table games, in its bid for a downstate license.

Casino executive at Resorts World NYC discusses proposed expansion of Queens casino, as captured on video footage.