Big news for fans of the New York Mets! Owner Steve Cohen’s proposal for a casino hotel near Citi Field has gained significant momentum.
State Senator John Liu intends to introduce a bill to change the zoning classification of 50 acres of parking lots surrounding the Mets’ stadium from parkland to commercial. This transformation could greatly enhance Cohen’s $8 billion Metropolitan Park initiative, which promises to include various dining and entertainment options, green spaces, and a casino hotel operated by Hard Rock International.
In exchange for this zoning change, Cohen and Hard Rock International have committed to building the Flushing Skypark—a pedestrian and bicycle bridge inspired by New York City’s High Line. This bridge would connect downtown Flushing with Willets Point across Flushing Creek.
“I know that achieving the Flushing Skypark will be challenging, but the Metropolitan Park team is more than capable,” Liu said at a press conference. Following this announcement, Liu shared images of the proposed Skypark on social media, calling it a “game changer” and expressing optimism about Cohen and Hard Rock’s plans, which include a $100 million commitment to improve Flushing Meadows Corona Park if the casino project does not materialize. “I’ll introduce legislation to facilitate these benefits,” he added.
Mixed Reactions to Casino Proposal
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards backs the project, asserting it could create 23,000 union jobs and provide much-needed investment in historically overlooked areas such as Corona and Flushing. Recent city council approvals have also supported Metropolitan Park’s land use proposals.
Despite this support, significant opposition remains. State Senator Jessica Ramos, who is campaigning for New York City mayor and represents the district encompassing Citi Field, has firmly opposed the casino proposal. Her refusal to sponsor legislation for changing the parkland classification has hindered the project for almost a year. “My stance remains unchanged. I cannot endorse a casino in Corona and will not support any alienation bill against the wishes of my constituents,” she stated in an interview with The New York Post.
Additional Hurdles for the Citi Field Project
While reclassifying the parking lots from parkland to commercial use is a significant step, more approvals are necessary. The proposal needs to be passed by the state Assembly and Senate before receiving the endorsement of Governor Kathy Hochul. Moreover, it must compete for one of three downstate casino licenses that are set to be awarded by the year’s end. The Citi Field proposal is one among many vying for these licenses.
Each project, including the one at Citi Field, has been presented to local stakeholders and planning boards through community discussions aimed at securing the necessary zoning approvals. This is crucial before the Gaming Facility Location Board makes final decisions in December.
Other proposals in contention involve potential casinos in The Bronx, Nassau Coliseum, and Hudson Yards. Additional bids include projects from Caesars Palace in Times Square and Resorts World New York City.
Casino developers must submit their applications to local siting boards by June 27, with the state Gaming Commission expected to award up to three casino licenses by December.
