The New York State Gaming Facility Location Board (GFLB) convened for its inaugural meeting on October 8, 2025, to evaluate the final four candidates seeking downstate casino licenses. The decisions made during this review will significantly influence job creation and economic growth in New York City and its surrounding areas.
Insights from GFLB Meeting
The meeting on October 8 initiated formal discussions regarding the allocation of downstate casino licenses. Following extensive preparation and public feedback, the GFLB, led by Chair Vicki Been, who previously served as Deputy Mayor under Bill de Blasio, will evaluate proposals based on their long-term economic impact and viability. Each applicant must present a comprehensive construction strategy and clear potential to generate substantial state revenue, as reported by Spectrum News.
Current Casino Licence Applicants
There are four proposals currently in consideration for downstate casino licenses in New York. Resorts World (Queens) and MGM Empire City (Yonkers) operate video lottery terminals, benefiting from established infrastructures and client bases. Bally’s (Bronx) aims to create a resort featuring gaming, dining, and amenities to bolster local businesses. Meanwhile, Metropolitan Park (Queens), backed by Mets owner Steve Cohen, proposes a large entertainment complex adjacent to Citi Field.
Evaluation Criteria and Process
The GFLB evaluates submissions based on practical criteria, focusing on community impact, financial stability, and long-term sustainability. Each proposal must demonstrate its ability to generate steady income for the state, provide a feasible financial model, and have a well-defined building plan. Additionally, candidates are assessed on their potential contributions to local housing and job creation. Each application undergoes a rigorous financial evaluation to measure both immediate and long-term financial returns.
Role of Existing Infrastructure
Both Resorts World and MGM hold a competitive advantage due to their existing casino-style operations. Their track records in revenue, established procedures, and regulatory knowledge reduce risks and expedite growth. Conversely, Bally’s and Metropolitan Park are new initiatives that require construction from the ground up, potentially delaying their openings and subsequent tax contributions.
Deliberation Process
After completing public hearings, the board will now assess applications privately to ensure focused, data-driven discussions free from external pressures. The GFLB employs scenario-based financial modeling to evaluate each proposal’s adaptability to economic shifts, consumer trends, and tax policy changes. The goal is to identify projects that can provide consistent, long-term revenues for the state and facilitate ongoing economic growth.
Chair Vicki Been indicated that no further public input will be solicited, allowing the board to concentrate on financial assessments and feasibility studies. She explained, “One of the things we have to look at is, ‘What is the overall financial picture? What kind of revenue are they going to be bringing into the state based on a dynamic financial analysis of how they are going to interact?’”
Decision Timeline
All four applicants must submit additional documentation, including financial specifics and construction timelines, by October 14. The Gaming Facility Location Board expects to present its recommendations by December 1. However, Been noted that the board may opt not to issue all three licenses if the proposals do not meet set standards.
Been remarked, “We can award up to three licenses. We don’t have to award any if we don’t think the applications bring sufficient revenue or are sufficiently well-developed.”
Possible Outcomes
Although three licenses are available, there is no assurance that all will be granted. The board may approve one, two, or none of the proposals based on their overall quality. The focus will be on selecting projects that fulfill economic and social requirements, rather than simply filling all available positions.
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