The state Senate delivered a decisive 54-5 vote on Tuesday, May 27, approving the critical land-use changes needed for billionaire Steve Cohen’sambitious casino development in Queens. This legislative win significantly advances Cohen’s bid to construct a major casino complex on a 50-acre parking lot adjacent to Citi Field, currently designated as public parkland. The bill now awaits Governor Kathy Hochul’s signature to move the $8 billion Metropolitan Park project closer to reality.

Overcoming local opposition to clear a major legislative hurdle:

Cohen, better known as the owner of the New York Mets, has long sought to establish a casino resort in Queens. However, progress faced substantial hurdles, including opposition from local lawmakers and concerns over the use of public parkland. The site in question consists primarily of parking lots west of Citi Field, which must be formally “alienated” by the state to allow redevelopment.

Among the minority opposing the bill was state Senator Jessica Ramos, who represents much of the affected area and has consistently voiced concerns about the impact of a casino on her community. Ramos stated on the Senate floor, “A casino is not an answer to structural inequality,” and expressed her belief that the development would harm, rather than help, her constituents. Despite her efforts, other senators voted to override her objections, enabling the bill’s passage.

Backing Cohen’s initiative was state Senator John Liu, who represents a portion of the proposed site and sponsored the legislation. Liu highlighted the project’s potential benefits, emphasizing that it would “create thousands of jobs for local residents and opportunities for local small businesses” while contributing over a billion dollars toward transit, park, and infrastructure improvements. A key feature of the plan includes a High Line–style elevated park designed to connect Downtown Flushing and Willets Point, further enhancing public spaces in the area.

The legislation had already passed the state Assembly earlier this month, and its final approval now rests with Governor Hochul. While Hochul has not publicly indicated her stance on Cohen’s casino or competing bids, her signature is necessary for the project to proceed. Cohen’s proposal is one of nine seeking one of the three lucrative downstate casino licenses the state plans to award by the end of 2025.

Community concerns and the road ahead for Metropolitan Park:

The approval caps off a costly, multi-year lobbying effort by Cohen and his partners, who have invested millions into securing support across various state and local officials. Several lobbying firms involved in the campaign employ former government figures, underscoring the high-profile nature of the initiative.

Despite the legislative victory, opposition remains vocal within the Queens community. Activists like Jackson Heights resident Alexis Kaloyanides criticize the project as a “land grab” favoring a billionaire over working-class neighborhoods. Ramos, who is also a candidate for New York City mayor, framed the debate as a question of power and community respect: “It’s about whether communities like mine are treated as partners or as pawns.”

Other senators joining Ramos in opposing the bill included Jabari Brisport, Cordell Cleare, Joseph Addabbo, and Liz Krueger. Addabbo, chair of the Senate gaming committee, argued that local representatives should have greater say in projects within their districts. According to Crain’s New York Business, Krueger, a prominent opponent of gambling expansion, remarked, “To use state land or city land and resources to build a casino isn’t economic development. The truth is, with gambling, the house always wins.”

Cohen’s vision for the site extends beyond gaming, incorporating an entertainment district and significant parkland development. The bill mandates that 20 acres of the 50-acre site be converted into proper park space, aiming to balance commercial growth with community recreation. The project is a joint effort between Cohen and Hard Rock International, whose expertise in entertainment and hospitality plays a crucial role in the development plans.

With rivals like the Related Companies and Wynn Resorts stepping back from their Manhattan casino ambitions amid political opposition, Cohen’s project now stands as a frontrunner for one of the final casino licenses. The next phase includes review by local siting boards and competitive selection by state gaming authorities.

Cohen expressed optimism following the vote: “After years of community engagement, thousands of conversations, and the leadership of our local elected officials, we are one step closer to transforming these asphalt lots into something our neighbors can truly be proud of. This is just the start, and we are committed to working closely with the community and fans every step of the way.”