MGM submits bid for New York commercial casino licence, as glitzy plans are unveiled

MGM could soon have a greater stake in New York if a newly announced bid for a commercial casino license is approved.

It’s through its subsidiary MGM Yonkers that an application was submitted on Thursday (June, 26) to the New York Gaming Commission and the Gaming Facility Location Board.

Its plans include a massive $2.3 billion proposal to “transform its historic Empire City Casino site into a commercial casino and entertainment destination.”

The Empire City Casino site has been around since 1899, with it operating as Yonkers Raceway. It has seen success within the city and has generated over $5 billion for New York State education since 2006.

The new proposal will see the site changed completely as it includes a full renovation and expansion of the casino’s existing gaming areas, “an expansive high-limit lounge and the addition of a state-of-the-art BetMGM Sportsbook offering retail sports betting.”

A 5,000-person maximum capacity entertainment venue is written into the plans too, with an accompanying meeting space.

If it goes ahead, there will be three new full-service restaurants and the existing food and beverage venues will be renovated in the aim of providing high-concept dining options for guests.

A parking garage with solar energy arrays and electric vehicle parking spaces are amongst potential new features too.

“Empire City Casino and Yonkers Raceway have anchored the entertainment and tourism culture in downstate New York for more than a century. Achieving a full casino license will ensure this site will continue to be a cultural and economic force for generations to come,” said Bill Hornbuckle, President and CEO of MGM Resorts International.

The proposal also estimates the project will create thousands of direct, induced and indirect jobs through the new economic activity. Other aspects of the application include significant investments to support public infrastructure in the City of Yonkers, including improvements to roads, water lines and traffic technology.

Featured Image: Credit to MGM Empire City Casino

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