MGM Yonkers, a subsidiary of MGM Resorts International, has officially applied for a commercial casino license from the New York Gaming Commission and the Gaming Facility Location Board. The submission details a transformative $2.3 billion proposal aimed at upgrading the Empire City Casino in Yonkers into a state-of-the-art entertainment hub. This proposed development is designed to maximize benefits for the State of New York, the City of Yonkers, and the surrounding areas, while enhancing the local community’s economic landscape.

MGM Yonkers submits $2.3B plan for New York’s casino market:

The project is set to include a major renovation and expansion of the existing gaming floor, a lavish high-limit lounge, and the introduction of a cutting-edge BetMGM Sportsbook with retail sports betting options. In addition, the proposal includes a 5,000-seat entertainment venue, which would host a variety of A-list performances and special community events such as graduations, local concerts, and other cultural gatherings. MGM also plans to open three new full-service restaurants and revamp existing dining spaces to cater to high-end clientele.

As stated in the company’s press release, sustainability is a key element of the development, with the inclusion of a parking garage featuring solar energy panels and electric vehicle charging stations, aligning with MGM Resorts’ commitment to eco-friendly practices. If granted the commercial casino license, MGM Yonkers expects the project to be fully operational by mid-2029, significantly reshaping the region’s entertainment and tourism industry.

Empire City Casino, which has been an integral part of Yonkers’ entertainment scene since its opening in 2006, has already contributed over $5 billion to New York State’s education system, including $1.6 billion since MGM Resorts assumed ownership in 2019. This new expansion plan is poised to enhance the financial contributions further, benefiting Yonkers, Westchester County, and nearby counties like Rockland and Putnam.

The revenue-sharing model outlined in the application ensures that if Empire City receives the commercial license, 20% of the tax revenue generated will be distributed among Yonkers (10%), Westchester County (5%), and the remaining 5% will be divided between Rockland and Putnam counties. The financial injection is expected to create thousands of new jobs, ranging from construction to long-term positions in the casino, hospitality, and entertainment sectors.

MGM Resorts has long been known for its efforts in creating employment opportunities and supporting higher education initiatives. Its GameSense program, an industry-leading responsible gaming education tool, also highlights its commitment to responsible business practices.

Infrastructure and community enhancements:

The development proposal also emphasizes public infrastructure improvements in Yonkers. These include upgrades to roads, water lines, and traffic management systems, ensuring that the city is fully equipped to handle the increased activity and population flow resulting from the new casino. MGM Resorts’ approach prioritizes energy efficiency, with plans to implement water conservation strategies and leverage solar power, underscoring the company’s dedication to environmental sustainability.

As part of the licensing process, the City of Yonkers recently approved a zoning ordinance that officially designates the Empire City Casino site as a “Casino District.” This approval paves the way for MGM Resorts to proceed with its plans, contingent on the final approval of New York State’s regulatory bodies. Mayor Mike Spano of Yonkers expressed optimism about the development, noting that the project will fuel transformative economic growth and position Yonkers as a premier destination for tourism and entertainment.

“This vote signals to New York that the Yonkers site has speed to market readiness and is prepared to hit the ground running once licenses are granted,” said Spano.