The New York Gaming Facility Board unanimously voted to issue a Request for Applications (RFA) to solicit proposals for up to three commercial casinos in New York State.
In 2013, the New York State Constitution was amended to authorize up to seven commercial casinos in the state. Subsequently, the State sited four destination resort casinos in Upstate New York. In 2022, the enacted New York State Budget established a new siting process and criteria for the remaining three licenses.
Revenue from new gaming facilities is expected to generate substantial fiscal benefit to New York’s public schools, local governments, and problem gambling treatment services. The jobs created by these casinos must deliver livable wages to help families live, stay, and prosper in New York.
The Board unanimously determined that the minimum capital investment and license fee for Applicants seeking to build a commercial casino is $500 million each.
By statute, a separate, appointed Community Advisory Committee (CAC) will review Applications. In addition, the successful completion of municipal zoning and land-use processes will ensure that only projects embraced by the community would be presented to the Board for consideration. Other important components of the Application may depend upon the understanding of the potential competitive landscape with other Applicants, which may only be gauged after these processes have been completed.
Due to these timing nuances, the Board will not impose artificial deadlines in today’s RFA issuance, other than the due date for the first round of questions (February 3, 2023) and the Return Date (30 Days from the Board’s response to the Second set of questions). After the Return Date for this RFA, a CAC for each Application received may be formed and obtain a complete copy of the associated Application materials.
In recommending an Applicant for license, the Board will evaluate and determine which Applicant(s) proposes to best advance the below objectives: Economic Activity & Business Development Factors, Local Impact Siting, Workforce Enhancement plan and Diversity Framework.
There are currently several casinos in the New York City area, including:
Resorts World Casino New York City: Located in Queens, this casino features thousands of slot machines and electronic table games, as well as several restaurants and bars.
Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway: Located in Yonkers, just north of the city, this casino features thousands of slot machines, electronic table games, and live harness racing.
Foxwoods Resort Casino: This casino is located in Mashantucket, Connecticut, about two hours from New York City. It is one of the largest casinos in the world, with hundreds of table games, thousands of slot machines, and numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
Mohegan Sun: This casino is located in Uncasville, Connecticut, about two hours from New York City. It features hundreds of table games, thousands of slot machines, and numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa: Located in Atlantic City, New Jersey, this casino is about a three-hour drive from New York City. It features hundreds of table games, thousands of slot machines, and numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
