Key Moments:
- Recently, the New York licensing process rejected two casino development proposals for Manhattan
- The community advisory committee reviewed the proposals. As a result, the projects led by Caesars Palace with SL Green and Rush Street Gaming with partners were denied
- Only one remaining bid now aims to establish a casino in Manhattan
Community Opposition Halts High-Profile Projects
Competition for new casino licenses in New York has intensified. Recently, two prominent proposals for venues in Manhattan’s Times Square were dismissed. The first rejected development involved Caesars Palace and SL Green Realty, supported by Jay-Z. A state-appointed community advisory committee declined the project. In addition, actors, theater employees, and restaurant operators in the area strongly opposed the project.
After the decision, SL Green CEO Marc Holliday expressed frustration. He described the outcome as a “despicable display of cowardice” and criticized the lack of consideration for those who would benefit.
The $5.4B Times Square casino bid by SL Green, Caesars & Roc Nation has been REJECTED in a 4–2 vote by the 6-person community advisory committee. The vote took place in a conference room around the corner from where the casino would have been built.
SL Green CEO Marc Holliday… pic.twitter.com/JbIf5ZDAnM
— TeaWithTia (@RealTeaWithTia) September 17, 2025
Another Bid Fails to Advance
The second unsuccessful submission, known as The West Side project, was put forward by Rush Street Gaming, Greenwood Gaming and Entertainment, and Silverstein Properties. Elected officials did not support the proposal. Therefore, it could not advance for further evaluation by the New York Facility Location Board.
Dino Fusco, chief operating officer at Silverstein, issued a statement saying, “Obviously, we are disappointed that our West Side elected officials didn’t see a path forward for The Avenir project.” Fusco added, “We are grateful to everyone who has supported this project and partnered with our team throughout this process and appreciate their confidence in our vision for the Far West Side.”
Overview of Remaining Manhattan Bid
Now, with these two high-profile projects eliminated, only one proposal to establish a casino in Manhattan remains active in the selection process.
- Author
Daniel Williams
