Four out of six votes stopped the $5.4 billion Caesars Palace Times Square project. This was before it could even reach the state review. The Community Advisory Committee blocked the casino, despite support from Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, SL Green, and Caesars Entertainment.
The plan was to build a Caesars Palace New York resort at 1515 Broadway. It would be above the Minskoff Theatre. Supporters said it would improve safety, create jobs, and boost tourism in New York City Times Square.
But opponents feared it could disrupt Broadway and hurt nearby restaurants. After public hearings, the committee voted 4–2 against moving forward. The only “yes” votes came from Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams’ appointees.
This decision keeps the bid from the New York State Gaming Commission. Even though casino licenses are expected in December.
Reactions were immediate: SL Green’s Marc Holliday was upset, while the Broadway League saw it as a victory for theater. For now, Caesars Times Square is on hold. The debate over a casino in Times Square New York is far from over.
As stakes rise across the city, everyone is watching what’s next for Caesars Palace NYC. And any future plans for a casino in Times Square—if they happen at all.
What happened in Times Square and why it matters
Times Square has seen a big change in the quest for a casino. After many meetings and public talks, a local panel stopped the casino plan tied to Caesars. This decision affects any casino plans in New York City this year and has people looking elsewhere.
Community Advisory Committee votes down the proposal
A state-commissioned Community Advisory Committee, with six New Yorkers chosen by Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams, voted 4–2 against the casino plan. This decision came after many public hearings where people and Broadway leaders shared their thoughts on a casino in Times Square.
The vote ended the casino push at 1515 Broadway. This means casino supporters lost a key step needed to move forward.
Local approval hurdle blocks path to state Gaming Commission review
New York’s rules say the CAC must approve a plan before the Gaming Commission can review it. Without approval, the casino plan can’t go to the state level. This rule makes sure local voices are heard.
The committee also rejected the West Side Avenir plan near the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. This leaves fewer options in Manhattan. It also means any future casino plans will face closer scrutiny.
Context: New York City-area casino licenses expected in December
The Gaming Commission plans to give out up to three downstate licenses in December. The CAC’s vote means the Times Square casino bid is out of the running for now. Other groups now have a chance to win the limited spots.
With fewer options in Manhattan, attention might turn to other areas. But the debate over a casino in Times Square will continue. State officials will consider community support, access to transit, and economic benefits across the region.
Key players behind the Times Square casino proposal
The bid brought together star power, real estate expertise, and a global gaming brand. They wanted to turn 1515 Broadway into a place for hospitality, nightlife, and live theater. Supporters said this team could quickly attract visitors and fit the area’s entertainment focus.
Roc Nation and Jay-Z’s role in the bid
Roc Nation, led by Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, focused on the cultural aspect. They aimed to boost Broadway’s appeal and increase ticket sales and hotel bookings. Jay-Z promised no retail inside the casino, directing visitors to nearby restaurants.
The team used music, sports, and entertainment to draw big events. They also got support from Rev. Al Sharpton and former NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton for safety and credibility.
SL Green and its 1515 Broadway redevelopment vision
SL Green, the city’s largest office landlord, proposed a resort complex above the Minskoff Theatre. They planned to keep The Lion King while improving public and guest areas. The design aimed to enhance the area without disrupting the marquee.
SL Green used existing air rights and a theater-first layout. They promised a refined upgrade, not a replacement. The focus was on managing crowds and lighting for show nights and late arrivals.
Caesars Entertainment’s brand leverage in New York City
Caesars Entertainment aimed to establish a flagship in New York as Caesars New York. They promoted loyalty perks to attract visitors to local venues. The promise was a familiar luxury experience with New York’s energy.
Executives believed a well-known brand could draw conventioneers and tourists ready to spend. This, combined with Times Square’s foot traffic, aimed to make first-time visitors return to Midtown.
Project scope: $5.4B plan to transform 1515 Broadway
The plan is to remake 1515 Broadway into a $5.4 billion resort. It will sit above the Minskoff Theatre, where Disney’s The Lion King plays. It aims to attract visitors worldwide with lodging, gaming, and entertainment.
Hotel, gambling, and entertainment complex anchored above the Minskoff Theatre
The idea is to link a Caesars-branded area to the theater. It will offer rooms, suites, shows, and nightlife. Supporters say it will be a top choice, like Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
They see it as a major attraction for those visiting Broadway. It will offer dining and gaming options, making it a must-see destination.
Design intent to complement Broadway and neighborhood businesses
The design focuses on blending with the area, not adding to it. It aims to keep guests moving to local spots before shows. The plan includes early and late-night services to keep the area lively.
The design is subtle above the marquee to keep views clear. Brand moments will be inside. The hotel will be a central spot for groups, with rooms booked around show times.
Community investments: public safety plan and civil rights museum
A $250 million investment includes a public safety plan. It was made with former NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton. It aims to improve lighting, patrols, and traffic flow.
There’s also a plan for a civil rights museum, backed by Rev. Al Sharpton. It will offer educational programs and apprenticeships. This will help the area and support local businesses.
Broadway backlash and neighborhood concerns
In new york city times square, a casino plan worried many. Theater workers, small shops, and venues felt the area was too fragile for such a big change. They feared a casino would draw people inside, hurting the lively street scene that makes Times Square special.
Why theater owners, producers, and unions opposed the casino
Theaters need people moving around to stay alive. Unions said a casino would keep visitors inside, not at shows. They believe Times Square should shine with theater lights, not casino games.
Economic fears for restaurants, culture, and pedestrian activity
Restaurants near 46th Street rely on evening crowds. A casino could reduce these crowds, hurting their business. Culture advocates worry about the impact on street performers and shops.
Quotes from the Broadway League and local workers
Jason Laks said the vote safeguarded the “magic of Broadway” for 100,000 workers and millions of patrons who keep the district alive.
Actor and musician Joanne Borts noted that casinos keep people inside, harming venues and diners.
Wardrobe union member Bill Hubner warned that the theater district’s culture—and the small-business web around it—could be weakened by a casino footprint.
How the brand positioned the Times Square casino experience
Supporters envisioned a Las Vegas-style Caesar’s Palace in Times Square. They said it would attract tourists without adding retail. They believed it would boost Broadway, not compete with it, creating a new hospitality center in Times Square.
| Stakeholder | Primary Concern or Claim | Impact on Street Activity | Relevance to Times Square |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theater Owners | Protect audiences for live shows | Keep crowds moving between venues | Preserves marquee attendance in new york city times square |
| Labor Unions | Safeguard backstage and front-of-house jobs | Encourage steady pre- and post-show foot traffic | Supports year-round employment in time square new york |
| Local Restaurants | Maintain peak dining tied to curtain times | Boost sidewalk turnover and late-night seating | Keeps culinary scene visible along times.square corridors |
| Casino Promoters | Position caesar palace as complementary | Channel guests to shows and bars outside the floor | Aligns a time square casino with Broadway demand cycles |
Reactions after the vote: sharp words and public statements
The fallout was immediate and loud, showing how much was at stake with the jay z casino times square bid. As the dust settled, both supporters and critics quickly spoke out. They tried to make sense of what the decision meant for Times Square and the jay z casino nyc conversation.
SL Green CEO Marc Holliday’s criticism of the process
SL Green’s Marc Holliday criticized the committee’s decision. He said it was unfair and hurt local jobs. Holliday mentioned the plan promised union jobs, safety upgrades, and steady revenue.
He tied the loss to the stalled momentum of jayz casino partners and the rock nation alliance at 1515 Broadway. Holliday saw it as a missed chance for public safety and new cultural attractions. He believed it was a setback for the city’s recovery and the partnership with the owner of caesars palace.
Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez thanks supportive officials
Roc Nation’s Desiree Perez thanked Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams. She said their support showed faith in a brighter Times Square. Perez urged leaders to keep an open lane for a state review.
She highlighted the project’s civil rights museum and small-business programs. Perez also mentioned how the jay z casino times square concept aimed to boost tourism and year-round foot traffic. She said rock nation remains committed to community benefits while respecting the panel’s decision.
Supporters and opponents frame what’s at stake for Times Square
Backers, including entertainment figures like Blue Man Group co-founder Matt Goldman, argued for a hearing in Albany. They believed a well-managed jay z casino nyc bid could help theaters, restaurants, and late-night workers.
Opponents, led by the Broadway League, warned of a dilution of Broadway’s unique ecosystem. They said a casino, even tied to the owner of caesars palace, might shift spending away from shows and long-standing venues.
Community voices were divided on whether jayz casino plans would elevate or erode Times Square’s character. Some pointed to added tourism and safety resources. Others feared congestion and a shift away from the core arts economy that defines Times Square.
What this means for other NYC casino bids
The stalled casino plan in Times Square changes the game. The Community Advisory Council’s vote affects how new proposals are pitched. Supporters of Caesars NYC will watch how rivals adjust their plans for public safety and community benefits.
Manhattan alternatives: West Side Avenir rejection and remaining proposals
The West Side Avenir plan near the Javits Center lost local support. Caesars NYC’s push in Times Square also hit a roadblock. Now, one proposal near the United Nations area is the only one left in the running.
This proposal must show it can work with offices, housing, and embassies. It must avoid the mistakes made by the z casino plan in Midtown.
Backers are working on traffic models and plans for street activation. They also need to control nightlife spillover. If the next bid can’t show a lighter footprint, it might not pass community review.
Outer-borough contenders: Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and racinos
Queens has Hard Rock’s proposal near Citi Field, part of Steve Cohen’s Metropolitan Park vision. Brooklyn’s Coney Island team offers a compact resort to boost local jobs and visits. In the Bronx, Bally’s aims to use the public golf course site, sparking debate.
Two racinos want to become full casinos with live tables. MGM Resorts plans a $2.3 billion expansion of Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway. Resorts World proposes a $5.5 billion upgrade at Aqueduct in Queens. Their existing transit access and operating records might give them an edge over newcomers.
Timeline: community approvals and state license decisions
Every bid needs local approvals before the State Gaming Commission. Community boards, borough presidents, and the siting panel make early decisions. Sponsors that learned from past debates might move faster with clear benefits and crowd management.
Final license awards are set for December. Between now and then, negotiations over public space, transit funding, and workforce guarantees will decide which proposals advance. Others will have to wait for another chance.
| Bid/Location | Developer/Brand | Project Type | Estimated Investment | Key Hurdle | Position vs. Times Square Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UN-area Manhattan concept | Reported remaining Manhattan team | Urban integrated resort | Not publicly finalized | Community approval near diplomatic zone | Survives after casino times square new york setback |
| Citi Field, Queens | Hard Rock / Steve Cohen | Resort-casino with park plan | Multi-billion (sitewide) | Land-use and local support | Outer-borough momentum vs. caesars nyc loss |
| Coney Island, Brooklyn | Local consortium with partners | Seaside resort-casino | Multi-billion | Transit, seasonality, community buy-in | Alternative to z casino talk in Midtown |
| Bronx golf course site | Bally’s | Urban casino redevelopment | Multi-billion | Lease scrutiny and local review | Competes as Manhattan options narrow |
| Empire City, Yonkers | MGM Resorts | Racino to full casino | $2.3 billion | License upgrade, regional impact | Operational edge over caesars new york casino |
| Aqueduct, Queens | Resorts World (Genting) | Racino to full casino | $5.5 billion | Community and state approvals | Established base vs. new Midtown concepts |
SEO context: keywords and search intent around a Times Square casino
People are searching for updates on the Times Square casino proposal. They want to know its status and who is behind it. They also compare it with other plans and wonder about Broadway’s role.
Consistency in naming matters. When searching, users look for caesars palace times square and caesars palace new york. Articles should use these terms while keeping information accurate. Timelines and decision points are key to keeping readers interested.
Related searches
Users search for time square casino, casino times square new york, and “nyc casino times square”. They want to know the vote outcome and next steps. They also compare it with other bids in Queens or Brooklyn.
- Outcome-focused: status of caesars palace times square after the local vote
- Comparative: differences between caesars new york plans and racino upgrades
- Location checks: access, transit, and Broadway impacts
Brand queries
Interest in caesars palace nyc, caesars new york casino, and caesars nyc is high. People wonder if Caesars Palace New York branding could move to another location if the Midtown plan fails.
- Naming clarity: how caesars time square aligns with national Caesars Entertainment strategy
- Partnerships: possible allies beyond Times Square real estate
- Market entry: routes for caesars new york under current rules
Celebrity angle
Searches like jay z casino nyc, roc nation casino, and jay z times square show interest in Roc Nation’s role. Readers also want to know how celebrity influence played with Broadway stakeholders.
- Messaging: how supporters framed caesars palace times square for cultural fit
- Influence: celebrity attention versus community advisory outcomes
- Follow-up: whether caesars palace new york ideas shift to other venues
| User Intent | Typical Query | Content Need | Keyword Alignment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verify outcome | casino times square new york status | Clear update on bid standing | times square casino proposal; caesars new york |
| Brand tracking | caesars palace nyc plans | Where the brand could appear next | caesars palace new york; caesars time square |
| Compare bids | nyc casino times square vs Queens | Side-by-side context and timing | caesars new york; caesars palace times square |
| Celebrity role | jay z times square casino details | Scope of Roc Nation involvement | times square casino proposal; caesars palace new york |
| Impact on Broadway | time square casino effect on theaters | Neighborhood fit and operations | caesars time square; caesars new york |
Conclusion
The bid to build a casino in Times Square has hit a roadblock. After months of debate, the Community Advisory Committee voted 4–2 against the $5.4 billion plan. This plan was for 1515 Broadway, a project by SL Green, Caesars Entertainment, and Roc Nation.
Opposition from Broadway producers, theater workers, and nearby businesses was key. They feared a casino above the Minskoff Theatre could change foot traffic and costs. Supporters believed it would bring $250 million in benefits and improve safety with Bill Bratton’s help.
The vote showed that Times Square’s recovery goals were more important than the casino. The decision now focuses on other bids in Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and racinos in Yonkers and southeast Queens. State license choices are expected in December, and Caesars Palace NYC is no longer in the running.
Times Square will continue to focus on entertainment, not casinos. The debate now is about how to support workers, audiences, and small businesses while keeping the area’s character. Whether a casino will return is uncertain, but the vote shows community consent is essential.
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