Resorts World New York City officially opened on April 28th, marking the debut of the first large-scale, Vegas-style casino in New York City, more than a decade after voters approved expanded gambling.
Project Opening and Significance
Resorts World New York City (RWNYC), owned by Malaysia-based Genting, commenced operations with its casino floor open to patrons. Genting Americas East President Robert DeSalvio stated, "We got the license Dec. 15, and here we are, April 28 welcoming our guests to the new casino floor."
- Operational Status: The facility launched with existing slots and electronic gambling amenities, which the company noted is one of the most profitable in the world.
- Location: It is situated adjacent to the Aqueduct Racetrack and is located a short distance from John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Competition and Licensing
Resorts World secured one of three new casino licenses after competing against major gaming corporations, including Wynn Resorts, Las Vegas Sands, Caesars Entertainment, and MGM Resorts.
- Historical Context: This marks the opening of New York City's first full-scale casino featuring live table games, following a referendum that approved gambling expansion in 2013.
- Selection Process: The three companies were selected by the state's gambling commission in 2025 after a lengthy process to award licenses in the downstate region.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The development is projected to bring significant economic benefits to the area:
- Employment: The expansion has already generated over 1,200 new jobs, with an additional 500 hires anticipated by the summer.
- Future Amenities: The company is also constructing the city's first sportsbook.
- Tax Revenue: State officials estimate that the three new casinos could generate $7 billion in gaming tax revenue over the next decade. CBRE projects annual gaming revenues of up to $5.6 billion under a favorable scenario.
Operations and Local Integration
To facilitate operations, Resorts World has recruited dealers from casinos in other states while also establishing a local dealer college to train New Yorkers in table game management.
- Local Support: Borough President Donovan Richards praised the development, stating, "I have always dreamt of Queens being an international entertainment hub, and this certainly is part of that puzzle."
- Community Involvement: Queens-raised hip-hop artist Nas, a project partner, performed at the opening, emphasizing the area's growth potential.
Market Structure and Future Developments
Currently, RWNYC holds a city monopoly. The company reports paying 63% of state taxes on slots revenue and 30% on table game revenue. The license agreement includes a clause stipulating that the tax rate will decrease to match competitor rates once they become operational.
- Competitors' Plans: Other planned casinos include Bally's, which is developing on a golf course in the Bronx, and Hard Rock, which plans a major development near Citi Field in partnership with Steve Cohen.
