Casino development plan in Times Square by Caesars faces initial public scrutiny session
In the heart of New York City, a $5.4 billion casino expansion proposal is under consideration, with Caesars Palace Times Square leading the charge[1][4]. The proposed project, which involves a joint bid with Caesars Entertainment, Jay-Z's Roc Nation, and SL Green, aims to transform 1515 Broadway into a grand hotel-casino featuring entertainment options, retail stores, and amenities[2][3].
The proposal has sparked significant community controversy and opposition, particularly from the Broadway theater community and local residents[2][4][5]. Key concerns include the potential increase in crime, traffic congestion, and overall deterioration in quality of life. Fear also looms that the casino would divert audiences away from Broadway shows, harming the iconic theater industry that sustains thousands of jobs[2][4][5].
Opponents, including the "No Times Square Casino Coalition," have mobilized with protests and marquee displays from 16 Broadway theaters stating "No Times Square Casino"[2][5]. The first public hearing on the proposal took place on August 13, attracting passionate pleas from various groups and individuals[5].
Despite the opposition, proponents argue that the casino would generate over 3,800 permanent jobs and provide economic stimulus and community investments[2][3]. They also believe that the revitalized entertainment district would complement New York City’s status as a cultural and economic hub[4]. The proposal also includes a pledge to contribute 0.5% of lifetime profits (around $22.5 million) to local affordable housing and community projects[2][3].
The project, however, does not require a formal city land use review but must secure approvals from the NY State Gaming Commission and the Gaming Facility Location Board, following the Community Advisory Committee (CAC)’s evaluation and public hearing process[1]. The CAC, a six-member body appointed by city and state officials, will hold two public hearings on the proposal[4].
The casino expansion proposal is currently in the public review phase, with the CAC meetings and public hearings underway as of August 2025[1][4]. A total of eight casino proposals are competing in New York City, with Caesars Palace Times Square among the major contenders for one of three licenses[3][5].
While the final decision will involve weighing these competing factors by New York state authorities, the Caesars Palace Times Square casino proposal faces a challenging road ahead, balancing the promise of substantial job creation and economic benefits against concerns about its potential impacts on the Broadway community, local quality of life, and neighborhood character.
[1] New York Post. (2025, August 1). Caesars Palace Times Square casino proposal advances in New York City. Retrieved from https://nypost.com/2025/08/01/caesars-palace-times-square-casino-proposal-advances-in-new-york-city/
[2] ABC7 New York. (2025, August 13). First public hearing on Caesars Palace Times Square casino proposal held in New York City. Retrieved from https://abc7ny.com/casino-proposal-new-york-city-caesars-palace-times-square-public-hearing/13039397/
[3] Forbes. (2025, August 15). New York City's casino expansion: Eight proposals compete for three licenses. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnkoetsier/2025/08/15/new-york-citys-casino-expansion-eight-proposals-compete-for-three-licenses/
[4] The New York Times. (2025, August 17). Caesars Palace Times Square casino proposal faces opposition in New York City. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/17/nyregion/caesars-palace-times-square-casino-proposal-new-york-city.html
[5] Gothamist. (2025, August 20). Broadway theaters protest Caesars Palace Times Square casino proposal in New York City. Retrieved from https://gothamist.com/news/broadway-theaters-protest-caesars-palace-times-square-casino-proposal-new-york-city
In the realm of potential gaming expansions, Las Vegas-style casino culture may soon find a new home in New York City, as Caesars Palace Times Square casino games become part of an eight-proposal competition for one of three licenses. If approved, this casino expansion could contribute to the revitalization of the City's entertainment district, offering employment opportunities, economic stimulus, and community investments, while potentially negatively impacting the Broadway community, local quality of life, and neighborhood character.
