Hedge-fund billionaire Steve Cohen has unveiled plans for a major development at Citi Field, the New York Mets’ stadium in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.
The $8 billion project, in partnership with Hard Rock International, envisions a new entertainment complex, a live music venue, and a Hard Rock hotel, along with gaming facilities.
The development, dubbed Metropolitan Park, aims to enhance the community with 20 acres of new park space, five acres of athletic fields and playgrounds, and a commitment to “climate-ready infrastructure.” This 50-acre project would be located on the current stadium parking lot.
However, New York State Senator Jessica Ramos has openly opposed these plans, as reported by Casino Reports. Ramos, a Democrat representing New York’s District 13, announced she would not support legislation to downgrade existing parkland in Corona for the casino development.
“We want investment and opportunity, we are desperate for green space and recreation for the whole family,” Ramos stated.
“We disagree on the premise that we have to accept a casino in our backyard as the trade-off.”
Ramos criticized the notion that a casino is the only solution to revitalize the area, highlighting the “generations of neglect” that have led to such desperation.
This opposition is significant because the project requires Ramos to pass a parkland alienation bill, permitting Cohen to build on city-owned parkland.
Instead, Ramos proposes an alternative bill allowing the construction of a convention center and hotel, and doubling the proposed green space, but excluding a casino.
“The parcel in question is in strategic proximity to LaGuardia Airport, and allows for visitors and tourists to feed into our vibrant food scene while addressing the consequence of climate change in the area,” she explained.
“Mr. Cohen and Hard Rock would still make a profit, albeit less.”
The competition for downstate casino licenses in New York remains intense.
The New York State Gaming Commission doesn’t expect to finalize the three casino sites until late 2025, but several operators are vying for these spots, each facing unique challenges.
Among the contenders are MGM Resorts and Genting Group, who plan to upgrade existing facilities. MGM aims to transform the Empire City Casino into a full-scale resort, while Genting’s Resorts World NYC in Queens may undergo a similar transformation.
In Brooklyn’s Coney Island, the Chickasaw Nation, alongside Saratoga Casino Holdings and Thor Equities, faces local opposition.
In Manhattan, Wynn Resorts and Caesars Entertainment are both prominent bidders, with Wynn focusing on Hudson Yards and Caesars partnering with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation for a Times Square site.
Bally’s Corporation is pursuing a project at the former Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point in the Bronx, though this is complicated by a shareholder battle over company control.