Mets owner Steve Cohen’s $8 billion vision to build a casino-entertainment complex next to Citi Field is gaining traction, particularly after two prominent Manhattan projects were turned down. In partnership with Hard Rock International, Cohen has presented “Metropolitan Park” as a transformative development for Queens, combining gaming with hotels, restaurants, and community spaces.

Manhattan Bids Rejected, Queens Proposal Advances

Earlier this week, siting boards dismissed two major Manhattan plans following neighborhood pushback: the Times Square casino supported by Caesars, Jay-Z Roc Nation, and SL Green, along with Silverstein Properties’ Hudson Yards project, The Avenir. With those out of the race, Cohen’s Queens proposal now ranks among the strongest contenders for one of three state licenses.

“Steve Cohen’s proposal is the strongest contender — by a pretty large margin,” remarked John Sabini, former chairman of the New York State Racing and Wagering Board. He also emphasized that Genting Resorts World at Aqueduct and MGM Empire City at Yonkers remain leading players due to their decades-long presence and proven regulatory record. “Yonkers MGM and Genting Resorts World are the top contenders — easily. They can open quickly. They’ve been prepared for some time.”

Genting’s Resorts World and MGM’s Yonkers operation, both slot parlors seeking approval for live table games, carry strong reputations with state regulators and have funneled millions into state coffers over the years. As reported by the New York Post, State Sen. Joe Addabbo, whose district borders Resorts World, praised the facility’s role in the community, noting its contributions during COVID vaccination efforts and post–Superstorm Sandy recovery. “Resorts World has been a good neighbor,” Addabbo said.

Cohen’s project has also overcome significant obstacles. Initially, local state senator Jessica Ramos opposed reclassifying land around Citi Field from parkland to commercial use. However, legislation approving that change passed both the state Senate and Assembly this spring, clearing the way for the Metropolitan Park bid. “After years of community engagement, thousands of conversations, and the leadership of our local officials, we are one step closer to transforming the asphalt lots into something our neighbors can truly be proud of,” Cohen stated after the Senate vote.

Competition Remains Fierce

While Cohen’s proposal has momentum, experts caution that nothing is guaranteed. Bennett Liebman, former deputy secretary for gaming under Gov. Andrew Cuomo, observed, “Steve Cohen is in much better shape than he was before. Genting Resorts World has always been in good shape.” He added that MGM’s Yonkers site, though less flashy, benefited from the Manhattan rejections.

Other proposals remain in play. Developer Stefan Soloviev, working with Mohegan Sun, continues to pursue the “Freedom Plaza” casino along the East River. Meanwhile, Bally’s plans for Trump’s former golf property in the Bronx and a Coney Island consortium’s bid are still contenders, though both face steeper challenges. Sabini suggested Bally’s has a slight edge over Coney Island’s team, which has encountered intense neighborhood opposition.

The state Gaming Commission is expected to issue up to three downstate licenses by the end of the year, guided by recommendations from the location board. Regulators face a difficult choice: awarding Cohen’s casino a license could impact nearby operators, as the proposed Flushing-Corona site sits just 10 miles from Resorts World at Aqueduct and close to MGM’s Yonkers facility.

Despite the uncertainty, Cohen’s plan carries significance beyond gaming. The Metropolitan Park project is envisioned as a year-round entertainment hub for Queens, potentially reshaping the neighborhood around Citi Field and enhancing the Mets’ connection with their community.