ALBANY – Moving Forward with Casino Plans
Steve Cohen, the billionaire owner of the Mets, is edging closer to realizing his dream of having a casino next to Citi Field in Queens following a crucial vote in the state Senate on Tuesday.
The bill, which passed with a 54 to 5 vote despite opposition from State Sen. Jessica Ramos, paves the way for Cohen’s $8 billion casino proposal.
This measure would allow Cohen to repurpose state parkland near the Mets ballpark for his casino project, pending approval from city officials.
Ramos, who represents most of the proposed site, has voiced concerns about the impact of a casino on the surrounding neighborhoods. Despite her efforts to challenge Cohen’s lobbying efforts, the bill passed.
During a passionate speech in the Senate, Ramos stated, “After years of neglect, the first serious proposal on the table is a casino. My community deserves better than that. Casinos may bring light, but they also bring shadows.”
State Senator John Liu, who also represents part of the proposed site, sponsored the legislation. He emphasized the potential job creation and infrastructure improvements the casino project could bring.
The bill has already been passed by the state Assembly and now awaits Gov. Kathy Hochul’s signature. Hochul has not yet taken a stance on Cohen’s casino proposal.
Cohen still needs approval from a local siting board before being considered for a casino license by the state gaming commission.
The state expects to generate revenue from three new casino licenses, with Cohen potentially being a recipient.
Cohen expressed optimism following the vote, stating, “This is just the start, and we are committed to working closely with the community and fans every step of the way.”
While supporters of the bill did not speak during the Senate session, the five Senators who voted against it, including Ramos, raised concerns about the potential negative impacts of a casino in the area.
Senator Liz Krueger, one of the dissenting voices, emphasized her opposition to government-sponsored gambling and its impact on economic development.
“Just because you spend money doesn’t mean it’s economic development. Economic development is something that creates new economic activity and opportunity. And the truth is with gambling, the house always wins,” Krueger stated.
