As the high-stakes game of development unfolds in New York City, Bally's Bronx casino proposal has moved closer to becoming a reality, receiving approval from the NYC Council with support from Mayor Eric Adams. However, challenges remain, as Gothamist reports that the casino's fate now rests with the state gaming commission, which is expected to decide on the license later this year. Competing for one of three downstate licenses, Bally's aims to convert President Trump’s former golf course into a casino complex.
Joining the process at the final stage, Mayor Adams expressed his support for Bally's proposal. With his backing, the City Council approved the legislation by a 32-12 vote, according to the New York Post. This vote allowed the plan to move forward without requiring a supermajority. Bally’s design includes a casino floor, a 500-room hotel with amenities, an event center, retail spaces, and extensive parking facilities.
However, the council’s support for the proposal was not unanimous. Councilmember Kristy Marmorato, who represents the district involved, openly expressed her opposition. "Our community will not be steamrolled by special interests, and I will not stop until this harmful proposal is defeated for good," Marmorato said in a statement following the Council vote, which was obtained by Gothamist. Notably, Marmorato's opposition comes amidst reports from NY1 that her brother works for a rival casino company. She has been steadfast in her stance that the Bronx should not become a hub for gambling.
On the broader political scale, both the Senate and Assembly appear ready to shuffle the legislative deck favourably for Bally's proposal, as per sources close to the matter. Council Speaker Adrienne Adams has highlighted the potential for economic equity in the district, indicating a readiness to put aside concerns about Donald Trump in pursuit of that goal.
Meanwhile, Mayor Adams' office highlighted the importance of a fair and competitive bidding process for the casino bids in New York City. "Mayor Adams supports a fair process with as many competitive casino bids in New York City as possible, each of which would bring good-paying union jobs and an economic boost to the community," an Adams spokesman said, according to the New York Post. This sentiment was reflected by Bally's senior vice president of corporate development, Christopher Jewett, who praised the council's decision and committed to being a "good neighbor" as the project advances.
