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Wednesday night, dozens of New York residents voiced their opinions during a public hearing on plans to build a Caesars casino in Times Square. The hearing, hosted by the Caesars Palace Times Square Community Advisory Committee (CAC), marked a key step in the lengthy process of awarding three licenses for downstate casinos, part of the state’s broader expansion of New York online casinos and gambling venues.
The event mirrored the broader downstate licensing process, with passionate defenders and detractors debating the proposal to build a casino in one of the world’s most recognizable tourist destinations.
Jobs vs. Broadway: The Times Square Casino Debate
Many commenters at the hearing supported the project, citing job creation as a primary benefit. Several supporters were members of local unions that would directly benefit from the jobs the casino could bring.
Kris Kohler, assistant director for the Mason Tenders’ District Council, a New York City construction union, voiced support shared by many in favor.
“This project will create a vibrant new world-class entertainment complex in one of the world’s most recognizable tourist destinations,” Kohler said.
“Benefits to the community include enhanced safety, middle-class careers during and [after] construction estimated to create 3,000 jobs for New Yorkers, child care for Broadway employees, street beautification, economic growth for the surrounding small businesses, hotels, restaurants, and more.”
Kohler added that while she typically avoids Times Square, the Caesars Palace Times Square project could change her perspective.
“My office is a few blocks from Times Square and, to be honest, I avoid the area unless absolutely necessary,” she said. “The enhancements that will be generated by the Caesars project will entice me and other like-minded New Yorkers to look again at Times Square as a place to go for dinner or entertainment.”
Actors Say NY Casino Could Dim the Lights on Broadway
Though in the minority, opponents of the project made their voices heard. Broadway actress Veanne Cox expressed concern that a casino could undermine the cultural character of Broadway.
“I am fearful, I am afraid of NYC losing its greatest, oldest asset,” Cox said. “Broadway brings people from around the world to celebrate theater, to celebrate art. It is very different sitting in front of a slot machine than going to see The Lion King with your family…Broadway is a community. A casino is not a community.
Cox closed with a plea to preserve Broadway’s uniqueness.
“There is only one Broadway in the world, one Broadway,” she said. “We cannot take the risk of that diminishing because of a casino being built right in Times Square.”
Times Square Casino Nears Crucial Decision Point
The Caesars Palace Times Square CAC must hold one more public hearing before taking a final vote on whether the proposal advances to the licensing stage. Seven other casino bids will undergo the same process.
All CACs must vote on their proposals by Sept. 30. Afterward, the state’s Gaming Facility Location Board will decide which three projects will receive licenses.
