New York lawmakers pushes Bally’s Bronx casino plan forward
A new bill has been introduced in the New York State Legislature for the development of Bally’s proposed hotel-casino at Ferry Point Park in the Bronx.
The bill, which marks a significant milestone in Bally’s efforts to acquire the necessary land, seeks state approval for the “alienation” of public parkland. This process would allow approximately 16 acres of the 413-acre Ferry Point Park, currently occupied by Bally’s Links golf course facilities, to be transferred for private development.
In exchange, Bally’s has committed to providing replacement parkland, rebuilding golf facilities, and enhancing green spaces.
Bill introduced by senators
The bill was reportedly introduced by State Senator Nathalia Fernandez and Assembly Member Michael Benedetto. However, officials clarified that this does not indicate their endorsement of the project; rather, it aims to ensure transparency and community participation.
The project’s Community Advisory Committee (CAC)—comprising the governor, mayor, state senator, assembly member, borough president, and council member—will play a key role in shaping and voting on the proposal. Fernandez assured that the legislation would provide the community with the opportunity to thoroughly review the project.
Despite local opposition, with Community Board 10 voting 29 to 5 against the development, the approval process continues. Bally’s must submit its full proposal to the New York State Gaming Commission by 27 June 2025, followed by a CAC review and vote by 30 September 2025.
The state’s Gaming Facility Location Board will ultimately decide on the casino licence by 1 December 2025. The project must also navigate the city’s Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP), requiring approval from the borough president, borough board, city council, and mayor.
Economic and political considerations
If approved, the $4 billion hotel-casino would be the largest private development in Bronx history. Plans include a 500,000-square-foot gaming hall, a 500-room hotel with a spa and meeting space, retail shops, a 2,000-seat event centre, and two parking garages accommodating up to 4,660 vehicles.
Bally’s has also pledged $625 million in community benefits, including funding for a new NYPD substation, road widening, and a new overpass to ease traffic congestion. However, concerns have been raised about Bally’s financial arrangements, particularly its agreement with the Trump Organization.
The firm has already paid $60 million to acquire the remainder of the Trump Organization’s lease for the city-owned golf course and would need to pay an additional $115 million if it secures the casino licence. This agreement has drawn scrutiny, particularly in light of legal cases involving former President Donald Trump’s business dealings.
Furthermore, the company is also among at least 11 contenders for one of three downstate casino licences, with competition from major players such as Las Vegas Sands and Mets owner Steven Cohen. The final decision, expected by the end of the year, will determine whether Bally’s vision for a Bronx casino becomes a reality or not.
