Zona de Azar USA – Bally’s Shows Optimism Regarding Gaming License for Bronx Casino
USA.- May 12, 2024 www.zonadeazar.com Bally’s Corporation is betting big on the Bronx, as it announces intentions to convert Bally’s Golf Links at Ferry Point into a resort casino. This ambitious project is poised to generate around 3,500 job opportunities in the local area.
“This will be the largest private investment in the Bronx, potentially of all time,” said Soo Kim, chairman for Bally’s Corporation.
The property is public parkland. In order to move forward with the plan, the gaming giant must get New York City and New York state lawmakers on their side to approve the change of use for the parking lot. No law made it to the floor this past session.
“I am still listening to my constituents and hearing their opinions… on the particular issue and weighing which way we should go on that,” said Assembly member Michael Benedetto.
Community members have split opinions. While some are glad about the jobs it will create, others expressed environmental concerns and traffic congestions.
While this legislation is key in their plans, Kim remains optimistic that they will garner support in January, when the next legislative session begins.
“We’ve been building community support, reaching out to local elected [officials], community groups. This is a this is a process that has to take time because you can’t rush these things,” said Kim.
Even with support, the resort casino is all contingent on securing one of three downstate gaming licenses that 11 companies are vying for. That decision is expected to come in late 2025.
“We’re optimistic, excited about what a full-scale integrated resort could bring to this community and really the Bronx as a whole,” said Kim.
The next steps are a public hearing to discuss the city’s proposal and to get feedback from the community to compose an environmental review. The meeting will be held virtually on June 25th at 4 p.m.
Edited by: @MaiaDigital www.zonadeazar.com