Mets Owner Steve Cohen’s $8B Casino Plan Near Citi Field Gains Momentum as Competition Fades
Steve Cohen, owner of the New York Mets, is making strides with his ambitious $8 billion proposal to build a casino and entertainment district next to Citi Field. Dubbed “Metropolitan Park,” the project is seeing increased support in the New York State Senate just as competing proposals for downstate casino licenses begin to fall by the wayside.
Metropolitan Park Secures Key Legislative Support
On May 20, Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris endorsed legislation that would rezone the planned site from parkland to commercial use — a crucial legal step required before Cohen and his partner, Hard Rock International, can formally submit their bid for one of New York’s three available downstate casino licenses. The move comes after the State Assembly passed a similar measure a week earlier.
Gianaris, who represents parts of western Queens, clarified that his backing is not an endorsement of the casino itself, but rather support for letting the proposal enter the formal bidding process. He noted that discussions among Senate Democrats were constructive, though it remains uncertain whether the bill will be brought to a vote.
Still, not all local lawmakers are on board. State Senator Jessica Ramos, who represents the area where the casino would be built, reiterated her opposition to the plan. She cited feedback from constituents gathered through town halls, surveys, and polling — the majority of whom are against the project. Ramos pledged to vote no should the legislation reach the Senate floor.
Growing Regional Support and Reduced Rivalry Bolster Cohen’s Bid
Amid the mixed reactions, support for Cohen’s vision is growing elsewhere in Queens. State Senator John Liu, whose district includes part of the proposed development area, introduced the Senate bill and expressed cautious optimism, saying many of his constituents are intrigued by the project’s potential economic benefits.
The timing of these developments may work in Cohen’s favor. Just one day prior to Gianaris’ announcement, Wynn Resorts officially withdrew its application for a Manhattan-based casino, citing intense community opposition to its Hudson Yards West proposal. Other major players, including Las Vegas Sands, have also exited the race, narrowing the field of competitors.
Meanwhile, officials in Yonkers — including Mayor Mike Spano — are urging the state to fast-track full casino licenses for existing racinos such as Empire City and Resorts World. Their push adds pressure on the state to move quickly on awarding the new licenses.
The New York State Gaming Commission is expected to issue up to three downstate casino licenses by the end of 2025. Each license comes with a price tag of $500 million. With fewer bids remaining and legislative momentum on its side, Cohen’s Metropolitan Park vision appears to be more viable than ever.
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- Source: SCCGManagement.com
