Key Moments:
- The Community Advisory Committee is scheduled to vote on the Caesars Palace Times Square casino proposal next Wednesday morning at the Times Square Alliance building.
- Over 175 speakers addressed concerns during the final public hearing, expressing both opposition and support for the $5.4 billion development.
- Caesars has committed to creating 3,000 construction jobs, the lowest among competing bids.
Community Voices Diverge Over Times Square Casino Plan
Residents and Broadway theater workers gathered Thursday to voice their strong opposition to the proposed Caesars Palace casino in Times Square. As the project faces a pivotal vote by the local Community Advisory Committee, concerns have surfaced regarding potential impacts on traffic, crime, and the unique character of the theater district.
The $5.4 billion initiative is led by SL Green, Caesars Entertainment, and Roc Nation. Their vision involves converting the present office tower at 1515 Broadway into a casino, hotel, and entertainment center. While some believe the central location could create jobs, attract tourists, and increase local spending, others fear negative repercussions for Broadway and its surrounding community.
Upcoming Vote and Public Hearing Highlights
The Community Advisory Committee, which has recorded more than 12 hours of public feedback – the highest among all downstate New York casino proposals – will decide the casino’s fate with a vote that requires a two-thirds majority to advance the plan to state-level consideration.
At the most recent hearing, more than 175 people presented their views to the committee. Broadway workers donned red shirts bearing the slogan “No Times Square casino,” raising issues related to congestion, crime, and the risks associated with increased gambling. Community leaders, like Patricia White, president of the Theatrical Wardrobe Union Local 764, emphatically opposed the proposal in their addresses to the panel.
The final vote for the Avenir and Caesars Palace Times Square Casino proposals will take place this Wednesday, 09/17. To ensure your voice is heard, submit your comments to TheAvenirPublicComment@nystec.com and CaesarsTimesSqPublicComment@nystec.com on or before 09/16! pic.twitter.com/VVxl54w0zR
— Tony Simone (@tonysimone) September 12, 2025
Arguments For and Against the Project
Advocates of the casino highlighted plans to retrofit an existing office building, minimizing construction disruption and promising added benefits for nearby businesses through Caesars’ rewards program. SL Green CEO Marc Holliday assured that the project would not displace residents or alter the streetscape, emphasizing that 1515 Broadway is an office property.
Security measures have also been a focal point. Project security chief and former New York police commissioner Bill Bratton outlined plans for enhanced patrols and surveillance, aiming to improve safety in the Times Square area. Reverend Al Sharpton emphasized the project’s commitment to diverse ownership, stating: “If this casino is established, it will be the first time we will have an institution on Broadway that has diversity on an ownership level… Jay-Z is nobody’s token; he’s the token booth.”
Labor groups remain divided, with some unions opposing the project while others view it as an opportunity to preserve land for affordable housing. Una Adams of Laborers Local 79 commented that competing proposals could remove potential sites for affordable housing.
Economic Impact and Job Projections
Caesars has made a commitment to generate 3,000 construction jobs, which is the lowest figure among the competing casino bids in the area. Nevertheless, supporters point to Caesars’ operational experience with industry leaders including MGM, Hard Rock, and Genting. Local supporters highlighted broader economic opportunities, with one resident, Rita, remarking: “I don’t think it’s just about gambling. I think it’s more about steady paycheques, more opportunities, and giving local businesses a boost.”
| Proposal Details | Key Figures |
|---|---|
| Total Project Value | $5.4 billion |
| Location | 1515 Broadway, Times Square |
| Construction Jobs Pledged | 3,000 |
| Lead Partners | SL Green, Caesars Entertainment, Roc Nation |
| Required Approval | Two-thirds CAC majority |
- Author
Daniel Williams
