All three casino proposals designed by Gensler and HKS (Bally’s Bronx), SHoP Architects and Field Operations (Metropolitan Park), and Perkins Eastman (Resorts World) were approved this week by the New York State Gaming Commission for licenses.
The approvals come less than a month after the Gaming Facility Location Board recommended the three casino projects to the New York State Gaming Commission for licensure consideration, as reported by AN.
New York governor Kathy Hochul said in a statement the “three approved casinos will generate billions of dollars for the MTA and education, create tens of thousands of jobs and deliver real benefits to their surrounding communities.”
“Metropolitan Park will transform asphalt parking into a year-round destination for fans and the community,” said Cheryl McKissack Daniel, president and CEO of McKissack, the construction firm partnering with SHoP Architects on the Hard Rock casino. “As a family-owned business, we believe the most impactful projects are rooted in community, and Metropolitan Park reflects the neighborhoods it serves.”
Queens state senator Jessica Ramos, whose district will include the Hard Rock casino at Metropolitan Park, was less enthusiastic. In a statement, Ramos said she has “long opposed this project” and that the license approval “does not end the conversation. It begins a new phase of responsibility.”
Ramos added casino “projects like this risk accelerating illicit economies and exploitation rather than stabilizing our streets.” Save the Sound, a conservation group, likewise has environmental and social concerns about both Metropolitan Park and Bally’s Bronx.
Still, the winning proposals ultimately came out on top over bids in Manhattan designed by BIG and others by CetraRuddy. A waterfront casino hopeful for Coney Island’s boardwalk, backed by Thor Equities, was also scrapped in September.
Joyen Vakil, Gensler’s global hospitality director, told AN: “We’re thrilled that the New York State Gaming Commission has officially approved the license for Bally’s Bronx Ferry Point, paving the way for this meaningful economic investment in the Bronx community. Bally’s and Gensler are committed to creating a unique entertainment destination that activates the East River waterfront district while celebrating the renowned city skyline views and bolstering the local job market in the process.”
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