The master plan for a $450 million project for a casino in Schenectady, New York has earned the approval from the Planning Commission. Prior to the approval, the commission made some suggestions in regards to the improvement of the layout of buildings that will cover a 60 acre area along Erie Boulevard.

Additional details pertaining to parking, the marina and bike path were presented by the Galesi Group, which has partnered with Rush Street Gaming to create Rivers Casino at Mohawk Harbor. The final plan includes a gambling floor that will range from 45,000 and 60,000 Sq. Ft., leaving about 1/3 of the area to be used for various restaurants and shops. There will be 1,700 parking spaces in total for patrons, including deck and surface spots.

The concern is that the parking can affect the waterfront and Commissioner Tom Carey believes a better parking design solution should be drafted. However, Bradley Lewis, also a Commissioner, countered, stating he would prefer the site offer more parking so no arguing will occur. Many neighborhood associations from East Front Street and Stockdale support the project.

The plans also include a path for bikes that will travel from the southern point of the property past the harbor. The path will pass the casino and finally end on Freemans Bridge Road.

Rivers Casino at Mohawk Harbor is one of three casinos given approval by the Facilities Location Board in late 2014 to apply for licenses from the NYGC. The casino is expected to open in 2017.