At the first public hearing for Resorts World New York City’s (RWNYC) $5.5 billion casino expansion proposal, held at Queens Borough Hall, over 40 speakers unanimously endorsed the project. The hearing, organized by the Community Advisory Committee (CAC), marks a key step as Resorts World vies for one of the three available downstate casino licenses.
Community Overwhelmingly Supports Expansion
RWNYC, located on Rockaway Boulevard, has operated as the city’s only casino since 2011. Now, the operator seeks to transform its existing 73-acre property into the largest casino in the United States, with plans for a 500,000-square-foot gaming floor featuring 6,000 slot machines and 800 live table games. The proposal also includes a 7,000-seat arena, a 2,000-room hotel, 30 dining options, an innovation center, and 12 acres of public green space.
According to the Queens Daily Eagle, Tom Grech, CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the project’s economic potential, stating, “Resorts World also strengthened Queens’ small business ecosystem by prioritizing local vendors and encouraging guests to shop and dine locally. Their expansion will bring sustainable growth, strengthen local businesses and invest directly [into Queens].”
The expansion, if approved, is projected to generate up to 24,000 jobs — 10,000 direct jobs, including unionized construction positions, and an additional 14,000 indirect jobs.
A Decade of Community Ties
The hearing showcased the strong relationship Resorts World has built with the Queens community over its 15 years of operation. Local leaders and nonprofit representatives praised the casino for its ongoing support and philanthropic efforts.
“Resorts World has been there and continues to be an important part of our success and the success of other tiny non-profits throughout Southeast Queens,” said Greg Mays, founder and executive director of A Better Jamaica.
Other organizations echoed these sentiments. Ellen Kodadek, executive and artistic director of Flushing Town Hall, noted, “Resorts World NYC has helped us expand our reach by promoting our programs to their guests, providing direct financial support, and backing important borough-wide initiatives like Queens Rising.”
Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s CEO, Bruce Flanz, emphasized Resorts World’s charitable contributions to critical healthcare services. “Over the years, they have donated much-needed funds to support many of our clinical services and programs in our hospital,” Flanz said, adding that the hospital fully supports the bid for a full casino license.
Next Steps in the Licensing Process
The CAC, chaired by Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato, also includes Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, State Senator James Sanders, Community Board 10 Chair Betty Braton, Governor Kathy Hochul’s representative Stevens Martinez, and Nicole Garcia from NYC’s Department of Transportation. Four of the six members must vote in favor of the project for it to advance to the New York State Gaming Commission.
Resorts World, emphasizing its operational experience and existing infrastructure, argues it could open its expanded facilities as early as July 2026 — years ahead of some competing projects. “We have the fastest speed to market of anyone, and we have the ability to open in six months from licensure by next summer,” said Kevin Jones, Chief Strategy and Legal Officer at Resorts World.
The company has also committed $1.5 billion toward community benefits, including $150 million for infrastructure upgrades, $50 million for an innovation campus, and $25 million for its charity program, Resorts World Gives.
As part of preparations for workforce growth, Resorts World will launch the Resorts World Career Center at Jamaica Station on Sept. 16, offering information on employment opportunities. A Dealer Experience Center, offering seminars and training for gaming careers, will also open at the casino.
A second public hearing for the project is scheduled for Sept. 15 at Queens Borough Hall. Final recommendations from the CAC are due by Sept. 30, with the state expected to announce the three license recipients by the end of 2025.
