The New York City Council has halted plans to construct a Bally’s casino complex in the Bronx. Speaker Adrienne Adams and the Council opted not to vote on a key bill that would have advanced the project, leaving the proposal uncertain ahead of an important state deadline.
Bally’s, having acquired the former Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point in 2023, intends to develop a 500,000-square-foot casino resort. The $600 million project includes a 500-room hotel, a spa, shops, a 2,000-seat entertainment venue, and two large parking structures. However, the Council must issue a “home rule” message to allow Albany to alter land use regulations to permit casino construction.
Bally’s Chairman Soo Kim has expressed frustration over the delay, suggesting political maneuvering and covert lobbying by competing casino bidders may be influencing the Council’s hesitation, as reported by the New York Post. He dismissed concerns that a Bally’s license would benefit Donald Trump, emphasizing that the community would gain from job creation, tax revenue, and local investment.
As part of the golf course purchase, Bally’s agreed to pay the Trump Organization an additional $115 million if it secures a casino license, sparking concern among city officials. However, insiders suggest Trump’s potential profit is not the primary reason for the voting delay.
In private discussions, Council members have expressed dissatisfaction with Bally’s lobbying efforts, noting insufficient engagement with lawmakers. Without broad support, leaders are not advancing the proposal for a vote.
Time is running out, as the state legislature’s session concludes in mid-June and casino license proposals for downstate areas are due by June 27. The Council plans to reconvene on June 11, providing a limited opportunity for the proposal to progress.
While some, like Bronx Republican Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato, remain opposed, sources indicate some Democratic lawmakers from the borough are working to secure enough support for the plan.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com