MGM’s Yonkers Casino Proposal Faces Crucial Vote in September

MGM’s Empire City racino is one of eight bidders trying to secure one of New York City’s three full casino licenses.

However, a divide has emerged between supporters and detractors of the project, and a critical vote by the community advisory committee (CAC) on September 16th will determine whether the proposed casino project moves forward.

The Great Divide

The first public hearing on MGM’s Empire City casino project was held on August 11th, and it revealed a schism between the supporters and detractors of the $2.3 billion project. While labor unions and several local politicians support the project, others believe the increased traffic, noise, and uptick in first responders’ presence make this a project worth scuttling.

A second hearing is slated for September 15th, where the project will require the approval of at least five community advisory committee members. The current racino at Yonkers Raceway features live harness racing from January 20th to December 19th, as well as video lottery terminals (VLTs) that resemble slot machines.

Should MGM receive one of the full casino licenses, the VLTs would be replaced by slot machines and feature live casino table games such as blackjack, baccarat, craps, and roulette, to name a few. The casino would become a tourist destination with the addition of a luxury hotel and would also continue to be frequented by locals.

The introduction of a retail sportsbook inside the full-service casino is also expected.

MGM Threatens to Shut Down Empire City

The two New York City racinos, including Yonkers and Resorts World New York City, have contributed mightily to the local economy, and both appear to have an inside track in obtaining the casino licenses.

Because both are already constructed and operating, the turnaround time to a full casino would be rapid, compared to the ground-up construction of other projects. These two bidders would begin renovating and adding to their existing structures, which would seemingly give them a leg up on the competition.

However, without the requisite five yes votes from the CAC, the plan would be in jeopardy and could cost MGM the opportunity to compete in what will soon be a more crowded market with three other full casinos emerging on the local gaming landscape.

Executives at MGM said that without this casino license, Yonkers Empire City may be forced to close, as the foot traffic will decrease from competition, and so too will its bottom line.