Bally’s Bronx Advances Casino License Bid

The New York Gaming Facility Location Board has scheduled a public hearing for Bally’s Bronx casino proposal on September 9, 2025, marking a critical step toward securing one of three downstate New York casino licenses. This development positions Bally’s as a frontrunner in a competitive process that could reshape New York’s gaming landscape. The hearing is part of the state’s rigorous evaluation to award licenses by December 31, 2025, unlocking significant economic potential for the region.

Key Takeaways

• Bally’s Bronx casino proposal faces a public hearing on September 9, 2025, to advance its bid for a New York casino license.
• The New York Gaming Facility Location Board aims to finalize license decisions by December 1, 2025, with licensure by year-end.
• Approval could drive economic growth, but it also faces scrutiny from the community and regulatory authorities.

Bally’s Corporation, a Rhode Island-based gaming operator with a portfolio spanning 15 U.S. casinos, is vying for a downstate New York license under the state’s 2013 casino expansion framework. The proposed Bronx casino, part of eight applications submitted by June 27, 2025, requires approval from the Metropolitan Park Advisory Committee by September 30, 2025, to proceed to final evaluation. The project must also clear environmental and zoning requirements under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR). Bally’s, known for its Atlantic City and Chicago properties, aims to leverage its operational expertise to capture New York’s lucrative gaming market, projected to generate billions in annual revenue.

The competitive landscape includes other major operators, with State Senator Joseph Addabbo noting that the decision may extend into 2026 due to the complexity of evaluations. New York’s downstate licenses are highly coveted, given the region’s population density and proximity to Manhattan. The regulatory process, overseen by the New York State Gaming Commission, emphasizes economic impact, community support, and responsible gambling measures. Bally’s has committed to robust compliance with the Commission’s standards, including responsible gambling tools aligned with national frameworks.

For players, a Bally’s Bronx casino could offer a new hub for gaming, entertainment, and tourism, potentially featuring advanced slot machines, table games, and integrated sports betting. For stakeholders, the project promises job creation and tax revenue but raises concerns about local infrastructure and problem gambling. The outcome of the September hearing will be pivotal in determining Bally’s role in New York’s gaming future.

Sources: New York Gaming Facility Location Board, CDC Gaming