Strong Local Opposition to Times Square Casino Emerges
Debate over casino expansion in New York City continues, with new polling showing strong community resistance to a proposed Times Square gaming venue.
Two-thirds of registered voters living in or near the district oppose the project, backed by SL Green, Caesars, and Jay-Z's Roc Nation, according to a Tulchin Research survey commissioned by the No Times Square Casino coalition. Of those polled, 50% said they were firmly against the project, while 24% expressed support, and 9% remained undecided.
The casino is planned for 1515 Broadway at 45th Street. Beyond local concerns, the issue has taken on political weight, as 64% of respondents indicated they would be less likely to vote for a candidate who supported the project. Only 18% said backing the casino would increase their support for a politician.
The six-member community advisory committee, whose members are appointed by state and city officials, is expected to decide on the Times Square bid by the end of September. A public hearing is scheduled ahead of the vote.
Although the developers have pledged $250 million in community investment, the survey shows opposition across nearly all groups. Among females, 73% were against the plan, while 59% of males expressed their opposition.
Age gaps were also definitive, with 74% of those older than 55 disliking the casino compared to 57% of younger voters. These percentages closely mirror a May 2024 survey, which reported 71% area opposition.
Queens casino bid gains traction
As the Times Square proposal struggles to gain approval, a competing bid tied to Citi Field in Queens, N.Y., appears to have stronger prospects. Mets owner Steve Cohen is leading the push for a casino at the stadium's parking lot, and Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal has acknowledged that the plan is well-positioned as New York prepares to issue three downstate licenses. The state also doesn't have real-money online casinos.
Industry observers expect two of the licenses to be awarded to racinos at Yonkers Raceway and Aqueduct in Queens. This would leave just one license for a new development in Coney Island, Times Square, Manhattan's East Side, or Queens.
Sen. Hoylman-Sigal, who has long opposed Manhattan casino projects, reiterated concerns about gambling facilities bringing traffic, crime, and addiction to neighborhoods. In a recent television interview, he said he opposed the Times Square and East Side proposals but noted that projects elsewhere, such as Queens, could move forward with local backing.
The proposed Queens casino would sit across from the under-construction Etihad Park, home to New York City FC's new stadium. Supporters argue that the development would produce significant state income without introducing tax rises among the public. However, legislators were urged by Hoylman-Sigal to pursue other forms of revenue, including a tax on online advertising.
Responses are still divided citywide, as Manhattan shows strong opposition, and Queens has been less resistant to the idea of a casino.
