The group behind a proposal to bring a New York casino to Coney Island revealed the very first renderings of the project.
If awarded a casino license, the property will be known as “The Coney,” a state-of-the-art, year-round entertainment venue in Brooklyn.
The Coney wants to revitalize the neighborhood
In October, Thor Equities, a real estate development firm threw its hat into the pool of casino contenders. The company manages a wide variety of assets in premier urban locations.
According to a press release, The Coney would:
“Revitalize Coney Island, bringing year-round jobs and world-class entertainment to Brooklyn and New York City — helping jump-start the economic revival of the legendary neighborhood.”
Members of the group vying for one of three downstate casino licenses are:
- Thor Equities
- Legends
- The Chickasaw Nation
- Saratoga Casino Holdings
In January, the group released a joint statement saying:
“Coney Island has been waiting for a year-round economy that creates not just jobs – but careers. Our partnership is unique, combining unrivaled gaming expertise, an unsurpassed track record in entertainment, and a commitment to serving the local community like no other. We look forward to submitting our bid and setting a new standard in economic revitalization and resiliency for New York.”
Many expect Empire City Casino in Yonkers and Resorts World NYC in Queens as the two locks for casino licenses. As a result, seven other operators, like Caesars and Las Vegas Sands, are competing for the third and final license.
New York casino opposition brewing in Queens
Over in Queens, community members plan to protest the potential plans to build a casino near Citi Field.
Speaking with Local ABC-7, residents say casinos “siphon off money from local communities, while residents-like many in Flushing, are struggling with rent and the soaring cost of living.”
Mets owner Steve Cohen has held several meetings to gauge the communities interest. Last month, the Mets’ organization released a report saying community members want to see something built in the area. However, they made no mention of a casino.
