Resorts World New York City Promises $2.5B to MTA if Given Casino Licence
Summary
Resorts World New York City has pledged to deliver $2.5 billion to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) between 2026 and 2029 if it secures one of New York State’s downstate casino licences this December. The offer includes a $600 million licence fee (which is $100 million above the state’s base), and about $1.9 billion in tax revenue over four years earmarked to support the MTA and other public services.
The company proposes a $5.5 billion redevelopment of the Aqueduct Racetrack in South Ozone Park into a 5.6 million sq ft resort — featuring a 500,000 sq ft casino, 6,000+ slot machines, 800 gaming tables, 2,000 hotel rooms and a 7,000-seat entertainment venue. Resorts World says the expansion would create roughly 5,000 permanent jobs plus about 5,000 union construction roles, with at least half of new hires coming from Queens.
Resorts World and Genting Americas East executives frame the plan as an economic-growth project that would immediately generate funds for schools and transport, and local leaders have voiced support, noting potential revenue for the city’s transit system and job creation.
Key Points
- Resorts World pledges $2.5 billion to the MTA from 2026–2029 if awarded a downstate casino licence.
- The bid includes a $600 million licence fee and an estimated $1.9 billion in taxes over four years earmarked for public services.
- The Aqueduct redevelopment is budgeted at about $5.5 billion and would create a 5.6 million sq ft resort complex with extensive gaming, hotel and entertainment facilities.
- The project promises roughly 5,000 permanent jobs and an equal number of union construction jobs, with at least half of hires sourced from Queens.
- Resorts World positions itself as an immediate revenue source for schools and transport; company history shows significant prior contributions to state education and horse-racing funds.
Why should I read this?
Short version: big money, big jobs, and it could actually change how New York funds transport and schools. If you care about local jobs, Queens development or how the MTA gets rescued from budget headaches, this pitch from Resorts World is one to watch. It’s not just a casino guilt‑trip — it’s a major public finance play that could shift timelines for other projects and competitors.