Queens Councilman Francisco Moya has endorsed Mets owner Steve Cohen’s plan to build an $8 billion casino complex next to Citi Field, calling it in the best interest of Queens and New York City. The proposed gaming center, hotel, and music venue, known as Metropolitan Park, has received Moya’s full support in hopes of revitalizing the area around Flushing Meadow Park. However, state Senator Jessica Ramos, who also plays a crucial role in the project’s success, has not yet agreed to convert the lots around Citi Field designated as park land to commercial use.
Moya is not only in favor of Cohen’s casino project but is also supporting another proposal for a new professional soccer stadium for the New York City Football Club. He believes that the casino-entertainment complex will bring a much-needed economic boost to the area and enhance the fan experience for visitors attending events at Citi Field, the USTA Tennis Center, and future NYCFC games. Moya is pushing for additional uses on the land near Citi Field to promote sports, entertainment, and recreation.
While Moya has voiced his support for the project, Senator Ramos remains apprehensive about the casino complex and has criticized Cohen’s team’s lobbying tactics. Ramos believes that the last-minute press conferences and lack of transparency in engagement do not align with genuine community involvement. She has been hosting town hall meetings on the project, maintaining a critical stance towards the development. Ramos also recently posted a picture with rapper Nas, who is part of a competing bid for a full casino license at Genting Resort World.
Despite the delay in deciding on up to three new casino licenses in the New York City area until late 2025, industry sources suggest that this postponement could work in Cohen’s favor. The additional time might allow Cohen to strengthen his position in Albany and garner support for his project. Cohen is reported to have friendly relationships with influential figures such as Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul, increasing his chances of gaining approval for the casino complex next to Citi Field.
The proposed casinos in New York City include various other projects alongside Cohen’s, such as The Related Companies/Wynn proposal for Hudson Yards, SL Green/Caesars/Roc Nation in Times Square, the Thor Equities consortium in Coney Island, Bally’s at Ferry Point in The Bronx, and Sands at the Nassau Coliseum Hub. The competition for these casino licenses is heating up, with stakeholders vying for the opportunity to build in prime locations across the city. The outcome of these projects will have a significant impact on the local economy and potentially shape the future growth prospects of these areas. As the political and community debates continue, the fate of the casino projects in New York City hangs in the balance, awaiting decisions from key decision-makers like Senator Ramos and state regulators.
