New York is unlikely to hand out licences for new casinos until late 2025, according to a report.
LI Herald reports that the approval of a citywide zoning change is the urgent priority for the New York State Gaming Commission.
While this could happen in the next few weeks, state environmental reviews must be completed by applicants alongside other zoning or land reviews.
Gaming Commission chiefs told LI Herald: “The Board is cognizant of the many factors relating to the zoning requirement, including New York City’s proposed text amendment relating to gaming facilities and of the many zoning-related questions posed by applicants during the first two rounds of questions.
“The updated timeline, expected to be finalized soon, will consider these and other factors.”
A number of high-profile casino companies have unveiled their plans for the potential acquisition of a New York casino licence.
In November, MGM Resorts International revealed its aim to transform its Empire City Casino in New York into a “full-scale commercial casino.”
The video lottery terminal racino in Yonkers has been active since 2006 and was acquired by MGM in 2019. But plans to rebrand it as MGM Empire City would see live dealer table games, slot machines and a high-limit gaming area added.
MGM also plans to incorporate a BetMGM Sportsbook & Lounge into the reworked property.
