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Summary:
- MGM Empire City could grab one of New York’s three downstate casino licenses on Thursday, amid approval from the Community Advisory Council.
- Plans include 183 live dealer games, new restaurants and bars, and a 5,000-seat entertainment venue.
- Yonkers could receive over $50 million annually in tax revenue, plus a fund to support small businesses in the area.
The race for New York’s three coveted downstate casino licenses is about to come to an end, and all signs point to Yonkers as being one of the lucky winners.
On Thursday, MGM Empire City is expected to receive the local support it needs from the Community Advisory Council, largely due to its history, as slot machines and electronic games have been operational there since 2006. Ever since, it has become one of the busiest gambling spots in the state. By 2027, if the approvals are granted, digital dealers will be joined by physical ones.
As explained by casino analyst Alan Woinski, who considered Empire City a frontrunner from the start, the company “brought in more without table games than most casinos in Las Vegas”.
Woinski, therefore, believes that their recorded success should automatically grant them the license that they already “deserve”. Plus, the fact that they are “already operating” eliminates the “opposition that so many of these projects have had”, another strong point for MGM.
$50M in Annual Tax Revenue and Profit-Sharing
Construction work would begin within months after getting the license, with plans including 183 live dealer tables, an expanded gaming floor, more than a dozen new dining and bar options, and a 5,000-seat entertainment venue designed to bring major concerts and events to the area.
Unlike the controversial Manhattan pitches, Yonkers has largely rallied behind the project. Local resident Jack Moran said,
I think it would be a sin if they didn’t get the license here. The facility is here already, the property and land. It’s ready to go
The financial upside for the city is significant. Officials project more than $50 million annually in tax revenue and profit-sharing. In addition, the casino has pledged to establish a multimillion-dollar fund for small businesses along Yonkers Avenue, something nearby shop owners are eager to see.
Emigdio Hernandez, who runs Tio Nacho, a Mexican restaurant close to the site commented,
Yeah, it is a good thing. Anything helps for the businesses. Hopefully, we’ll get to know, get the information, and apply for it
While a hotel isn’t part of the immediate plan, MGM can consider adding one in the future, as it has plenty of room for it. For the time being, Yonkers leaders are heading into Thursday’s vote with confidence, convinced Empire City will be the first proposal to win the green light.
