Wynn Casino in NYC Faces New Hurdles: Borough President Levine’s Opposition to the Casino License

The ambitious proposal by Related Companies and Wynn Resorts to establish a casino hotel in the bustling Hudson Yards area of New York City has encountered a significant setback. Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine has voiced his strong opposition to the necessary zoning alterations required to pave the way for this large-scale gaming and hospitality venture.

Renderings of Hudson Yards West, a proposed $12 billion development that would include a Wynn Resorts casino. Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine rejected proposed zoning changes for the venue. (Image: Related Companies)

Recent Developments in New York’s Casino Landscape

In April of the previous year, the New York City Council greenlit the “Gaming Facility Text Amendment.” This amendment was a crucial step, opening up possibilities for casino resorts to be developed across the city’s five boroughs. However, this doesn’t automatically guarantee approval for every proposed venue. Local borough leadership retains the power to scrutinize and potentially block individual proposals.

The Related/Wynn project specifically requires an alteration to Section 93-58 of the New York City Zoning Resolution. This change would permit modifications to the property’s ground floor and open space requirements – a necessary step for accommodating a casino hotel complex. Borough President Levine’s primary concern revolves around the city’s ongoing housing crisis. He argues that rezoning Western Rail Yards would exacerbate the existing shortage.

“Across Manhattan, rental vacancy hovers at under 2%, while average rents sit at nearly $5,000 per month,” Levine stated. “There is no getting around the fact that we must create more housing, including affordable housing, to meet the need we see across the city. Failure means becoming a city where our children will not be able to afford to live.”

The original agreement between Related and the city in 2009 stipulated the creation of between 3,454 and 5,700 housing units. However, the current casino bid has reduced this estimate to just 1,500, including only 324 designated as “affordable.” This significant reduction has fueled concerns from community advocates and politicians alike.

Growing Opposition to the Wynn New York Casino Plan

Notably, a majority of casino proposals in New York City are facing opposition, with the Related/Wynn bid arguably receiving some of the strongest resistance. Local politicians and community groups like Protect The High Line have voiced their concerns about the potential negative impacts of a gaming venue at Western Rail Yards.

Protect The High Line, named after a beloved city park known for its scenic views, fears that the casino and accompanying high-rise towers would obstruct these views, reduce sunlight, and significantly reduce the number of promised housing units. They emphasize that unlike the 2009 rezoning agreement, which involved community input, the new plan was introduced with limited engagement from local stakeholders.

Alan van Capelle, Executive Director of Friends of the High Line, described the Wynn/Related effort as “misguided.” The future of Borough President Levine’s stance on this issue remains uncertain, given his current candidacy for city comptroller. His position could shift depending on his political aspirations.

Land Use Challenges in NYC Casino Approvals

The New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) is anticipated to soon open the bidding window for three downstate casino permits, with the awarding of licenses expected later this year. The New York Gaming Facility Location Board plays a crucial role in evaluating venue suitability and making recommendations to the commission. However, the final decision rests with the NYSGC.

It’s becoming increasingly apparent that land use issues are central to the entire process. While the Related/Wynn plan faces headwinds, other proposals for gaming venues in the Bronx and Queens are also grappling with unanswered land use questions. Furthermore, critics argue that Las Vegas Sands’ proposal for a casino on Long Island could pose environmental risks, potentially impacting the local water supply.

Key Facts about Wynn Resorts and 10BET

• Wynn Resorts is a global hospitality and entertainment company known for its luxury casino properties. They currently operate casinos in Las Vegas and Macau.
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• The proposed Wynn casino in NYC is estimated to cost $12 billion, making it one of the most expensive casino projects in the city’s history.
• The project includes not only a casino but also luxury accommodations, retail spaces, and restaurants.

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Conclusion

The proposed Wynn casino in New York City is currently facing significant opposition, primarily due to concerns about the city’s housing shortage and the potential negative impacts on local communities. Borough President Levine’s rejection of necessary zoning changes highlights the complex interplay between economic development and community needs in urban planning. The outcome of the New York State Gaming Commission’s decision will depend on a variety of factors, including land use considerations, environmental impact assessments, and community feedback.

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