New York City casino plans unveiled by Genting in the midst of a heated licensing competition
### Genting's Ambitious Expansion Plans for Resorts World New York City
In a bid to transform Resorts World New York City (RWNYC) into one of the largest integrated resorts in the United States, Genting has unveiled an extensive expansion plan. If approved, the project will see the existing racino at Aqueduct Racetrack in Queens grow into a world-class destination, boasting a range of luxurious facilities and a vast casino area.
#### Key Components of the Proposal
The proposed $5.5 billion project encompasses various elements, including:
- **Casino Expansion:** The casino floor will expand to 350,000 square feet, placing it among the largest in the U.S. - **Hotel Rooms:** An additional 1,600 hotel rooms will be added, potentially making it the largest hotel in New York City. - **Entertainment:** A 7,000-seat arena for concerts and events is planned. - **Convention Space:** 350,000 square feet of convention and meeting space will be included. - **Aqueduct Park:** The closure of the racetrack will allow for the development of an “Aqueduct Park,” including a sports academy. - **Housing:** The project includes a commitment to build 3,000 new housing units alongside other infrastructure improvements. - **Retail and Dining:** Expanded shopping and dining options will be integrated.
#### Economic and Community Impact
If successful, the proposal promises significant economic benefits, including tens of thousands of jobs and hundreds of millions in new tax revenue for both New York State and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). Genting has emphasized union support and housing commitments as strengths in its bid.
#### Anticipated Timeline and Challenges
The formal proposal was presented to the Community Advisory Committee in July 2025, and RWNYC officially submitted its bid to the New York State Gaming Commission in the summer of 2025. If the casino license is awarded, Genting anticipates the project could open as early as July 2026. However, the timeline is contingent on New York State awarding one of the three available full casino licenses and on clearing necessary regulatory and community approvals.
While Resorts World NYC’s existing infrastructure and expansion vision give it a strong position, Genting faces internal and external challenges. These include reputational risk following a recent $10.5 million fine for anti-money laundering (AML) lapses at its Las Vegas property, competition from other major bids in Queens, and state dynamics regarding the impact of new casinos on existing racinos for revenue.
The company, however, remains optimistic, with Robert DeSalvio, president of Genting Americas East, reaffirming the company's long-term commitment to the Queens community. If approved, the expanded RWNYC will not only benefit the resort but also the entire area, the city, and the state, according to Genting.
- In future casino-and-gambling trends, the proposed expansion of Resorts World New York City (RWNYC) could potentially position it as one of the largest integrated resorts in the United States, offering a vast casino-games area.
- With the addition of 1,600 hotel rooms, the expanded RWNYC, if approved, may become the largest hotel in New York City, promising a substantial boost to the casino-culture and tourist attractions.
- The casino-personalities behind RWNYC, such as Robert DeSalvio, president of Genting Americas East, have expressed optimism about the project, envisioning significant economic benefits from lotteries, casinos, and other gambling-trends for the Queens community, the city, and the state.
- Despite facing internal and external challenges, including recent AML lapses at its Las Vegas property and competition from other major bids in Queens, Genting remains dedicated to its long-term commitment to the casino-culture and community development in Queens, as exemplified by their plans for the "Aqueduct Park" and housing projects.
