Steve Cohen’s $8B Casino Project Gets Crucial Support from Queens Lawmaker

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Steve Cohen, billionaire owner of the New York Mets, secured a major win for his massive casino project as Queens lawmaker John Liu introduced legislation that could transform the Citi Field parking lots into a commercial zone. This legislative move marks a critical step forward for the proposed $8 billion Metropolitan Park casino complex.

The bill, introduced Sunday, aims to redesignate the parking areas surrounding the Queens baseball stadium from parkland to commercial use. This change addresses a key legal obstacle that has blocked Cohen's ambitious casino plans since 2023.

"The parking lot is legally parkland, requiring specific state legislation to allow a gaming facility to be built there before proceeding with the application to the state gaming commission," Liu explained during the announcement.

Cohen's partnership with Hard Rock International represents a significant bet on bringing a Las Vegas-style entertainment complex to Queens. The project gained momentum after New York state began accepting applications for three downstate casino licenses, sparking fierce competition among developers and existing racinos. While physical casinos expand in New York, many residents continue turning to digital alternatives like the ones mentioned in this guide. These online casinos are attractive to many players because they offer big payouts with enticing bonuses, process withdrawals almost instantly, and provide users with a wide variety of unique games.

As first reported by the New York Post, The Metropolitan Park proposal connects strategically to the Flushing Skypark project - a planned High Line-inspired pedestrian bridge linking downtown Flushing to Willets Point. Cohen committed $100 million toward this community development regardless of whether the bridge project materializes.

"These interactive areas would transform a simple crossing into vibrant hubs serving as flexible public spaces for community gatherings," said Liu, who represents Flushing and portions of the proposed casino site.

While gaining Liu's support represents progress, significant hurdles remain. The proposal faces opposition from Senator Jessica Ramos, whose district encompasses most of the planned development area.

"My position hasn't changed. I can't support a casino in Corona," Ramos stated firmly, potentially derailing the project since the Senate typically defers to local legislators on district-specific issues.

Despite this opposition, Liu expressed confidence in community backing: "Some opposed but far more in favor." The legislation must clear both the state Assembly and Senate before reaching Governor Hochul's desk.

Hard Rock International Chairman Jim Allen highlighted the economic benefits, noting the project would generate "thousands of jobs and unparalleled experiences" for both local residents and visitors. Casino development has become increasingly competitive in New York, with operators understanding the importance of community support.

For Cohen - who recently demonstrated his financial commitment to New York by signing outfielder Juan Soto to a $765 million contract - the casino represents another massive investment in the city's future.

The Metropolitan Park design features retail shops, restaurants, a 400-room hotel, and entertainment venues alongside gambling facilities. Renderings showcase green spaces and public plazas intended to blend the complex with surrounding neighborhoods.

As this legislative battle unfolds, one thing remains clear: the transformation of Willets Point and the communities surrounding Citi Field hangs in the balance, dependent on political will and public sentiment toward bringing casino gambling to Queens.

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