Plans for a massive New York City casino have been unveiled by MGM Resorts.

Casino at the MGM New York
Currently serving as a video lottery racino, the Empire City Casino is situated in the Yonkers district of New York. Slot machines, a variety of table games, harness racing betting, and international simulcasting are all available at the MGM site.

But MGM plans to expand the arena and add more amenities to make it a larger venue. A large-scale commercial casino featuring slot machines, live dealers, and a high-limit gaming section would be one of these.

A BetMGM Sportsbook and Lounge, multiple dining options, and an entertainment arena with a capacity of 5,000 are among the additional planned amenities located on the premises. 

On the other hand, MGM needs to get one of the three full-service casino licenses that are up for grabs in New York for the project to go forward. After launching earlier this year, the bidding process will be disclosed in the coming months along with the schedule for these licenses. 

MGM Empire City will continue the proud tradition of MGM Resorts in providing world-class entertainment and gaming experiences, according to MGM president and CEO Bill Hornbuckle.

"A state-of-the-art casino and entertainment complex will revolutionise the entire region, offer unforgettable experiences, generate thousands of employment opportunities, and strengthen the state's economy."

Locals rally around MGM's casino bid
The mayor of Yonkers, Mike Spano, is on board with the idea as well, stating that it will help the local economy develop. According to MGM, a full-scale casino would bring in over $1.0 billion (£790.5 million/€915.2 million) in additional revenue for the region.

"This development plan will solidify Empire City's status as a premier entertainment destination," Spano said, adding that the venue already draws millions of tourists yearly. For 125 years, this historic property has been a source of employment, enjoyment, and support for generations of Yonkers people.

"I can't wait for the 125 years that this project will change the lives of locals in profound ways."

Rivalry for MGM's New York casino licence is heating up.
Several groups, including MGM, have expressed interest in applying for a new commercial casino licence in the Empire State.

Steve Cohen, owner of the New York Mets, and Hard Rock International presented plans for a $8 billion casino resort at Citi Field ballpark earlier this month.

Located in the Queens neighbourhood, the Metropolitan Park complex is planned to be built on 50 acres of parking lot land that surrounds the ballpark. 

The project includes a Hard Rock hotel and casino as well as a separate sportsbook facility, all of which are contingent upon the acquisition of the necessary licenses. Twenty acres of additional parkland will accompany the live music arena, snack hall and tailgate park.

Nearly 15,000 new construction and permanent jobs will be created as a result of these efforts.

A New York casino was to be opened in October of last year by Caesars Entertainment. Caesars is aiming to work with SL Green Realty to open the facility in Times Square.

A property near Times Square, 1515 Broadway, is to be redeveloped by Caesars and SL Green into Caesars Palace Times Square. The campaign has the support of Roc Nation, the entertainment company that Jay-Z co-founded.

Among the other interested operators are Universal Entertainment, Wynn Resorts, and Las Vegas Sands.

In an April special post for iGB, Muhammad Cohen—a native New Yorker and former city planner—examined the ideas.