Why New York’s casino bidding process will continue to face delays

Monday, March 25, 2024 4:06 PM
  • Jason Beeferman, Politico

The wait for a downstate casino is not ending anytime soon.

The state Gaming Commission indicated last week that it likely won’t start accepting applications in the high-stakes casino bidding war until the City Council approves a land use change necessary to build a casino in the five boroughs.

The state commission previously said it would also not begin considering those applications until state-appointed advisory committees meet to evaluate the bids.

That means casino licenses won’t be awarded for many more months, if not longer — much to the chagrin of gaming supporters.

“I think the word frustrating just doesn’t capture my emotions,” state Sen. Joseph Addabbo Jr., a Queens Democrat, said.