Mets owner Steve Cohen is seeking approval from state Senator Jessica Ramos to develop an $8 billion casino complex project known as “Metropolitan Park” next to Citi Field. Cohen rallied the support of 100 civic leaders, small business owners, and residents to back the project. Ramos has been hesitant to support the project, but there are only a few weeks left in the legislative session for her to make a decision.
A pro-casino rally was held near Ramos’ district office in Jackson Heights, with supporters advocating for job opportunities and entertainment for Queens residents. Parishioners from First Baptist Church of Corona voiced their support for the project, emphasizing the benefits it could bring to the community. Supporters of the casino project carried signs with slogans like “We want jobs” and “We deserve nice things.”
Residents like Dwight Young and his mother Valerie Young expressed their belief that the casino project could provide opportunities for job creation and generational wealth in the community. They highlighted the importance of having entertainment options available in Queens, rather than having to travel to other boroughs for such amenities. Eddie Valentin, owner of Friend’s Tavern, also supported the project as a way to transform the area into something beneficial for the neighborhood.
Despite the efforts to garner support for the project, Senator Jessica Ramos remains cautious about endorsing the casino complex. She stated that while Cohen is trying to win support for his bid, she is focused on representing her constituents in Albany. Other Queens officials, including Councilman Francisco Moya, Assemblyman Jeffry Aubry, and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, have expressed their backing for the project, emphasizing the economic benefits it could bring to the area.
Last November, Cohen unveiled his plans for the “Metropolitan Park” entertainment complex, which includes a gaming center, hotel, and music venue to be operated with Hard Rock International. The proposal also includes 20 acres of green space and access to Flushing Bay for the community. Other casino projects in the area, like Genting Resorts World New York and Bally’s at Ferry Point in The Bronx, are also planning to submit bids for state licenses to offer live table games.
Various other casino plans are in the works around New York, including ones with Related Companies and Wynn Resorts in Hudson Yards, and the Thor Equity consortium gaming facility complex along the Coney Island boardwalk. State regulators are expected to award the licenses for these projects by the end of 2025. Despite some opposition to the “Metropolitan Park” project, Cohen and his supporters are working to generate momentum and secure the necessary approvals for the development.
