MGM Yonkers Proposes $2.3 Billion Commercial Casino Transformation

MGM Yonkers Submits License Application for Revolutionary Casino

MGM Yonkers Inc., a prominent subsidiary of MGM Resorts International, has officially put forth its application for a commercial casino license to the New York Gaming Commission. This proposal entails a monumental investment of $2.3 billion aimed at overhauling the historic Empire City Casino into an all-encompassing entertainment venue. The project is positioned not just to revamp the gaming space but also to bolster the economy of Yonkers and the greater New York area.

Project Vision and Community Impact

The proposed plans promise extensive renovations to the existing gaming areas, which will include an upscale high-limit lounge and a cutting-edge BetMGM Sportsbook that will provide retail sports betting options. This ambitious redevelopment also envisions a state-of-the-art entertainment facility with a maximum capacity of 5,000 people, specifically designed to host a wide range of performances that cater to both international stars and local talent. Additionally, the venue aims to create space for community events such as graduations and other local celebrations.

The project highlights MGM's commitment to not only enhancing the gaming experience but also creating a vibrant community hub. Alongside the new entertainment venue, three full-service restaurants will be introduced, complemented by renovations of existing food and drink spots, ensuring diverse culinary choices for visitors. Furthermore, the incorporation of a parking garage with solar energy installations and electric vehicle parking underscores MGM's dedication to sustainability.

If the application is successful, MGM Yonkers anticipates that the entirety of the project will be completed by mid-2029.

Economic Benefits for Yonkers and Surrounding Areas

Since its opening in 2006, Empire City Casino has contributed overwhelmingly to New York's educational funding, generating over $5 billion, which includes $1.6 billion since MGM Resorts took the helm in 2019. The casino’s expansion is projected to significantly increase the financial returns shared with the City of Yonkers. Under the proposed revenue-sharing model, 20% of tax revenues generated by the casino will funnel into local communities, with 10% allocated to Yonkers, and the remainder distributed among neighboring counties.

MGM's plans are expected to create numerous jobs, encompassing direct, indirect, and induced positions attributed to the burgeoning economic activities that the new commercial casino is set to generate. These efforts align with MGM's longstanding reputation as a preferred employer, fortified by career pathways, educational support, and responsible gaming initiatives such as GameSense.

Infrastructure and Sustainability Initiatives

The proposal also includes substantial investments aimed at improving public infrastructure within Yonkers. Planned upgrades such as enhanced road systems, upgraded water lines, and advanced traffic management technologies highlight MGM's commitment to supporting the city’s overall development. Additionally, sustainable practices, including water conservation and solar energy utilization, remain at the forefront of the development philosophy, reinforcing MGM's pledge to foster growth within the communities where it operates.

MGM Resorts has worked diligently to establish Empire City Casino as a premier entertainment and gaming venue in the northeast. The casino features around 4,700 slot machines and a wide variety of table games, alongside live racing and entertainment events that appeal to a broad audience. With a variety of dining options, the venue caters to diverse tastes, ensuring an all-round memorable experience for its guests.

As MGM prepares to reshape the legacy of Empire City Casino, the proposed developments promise to create an enriched cultural and economic landscape for Yonkers and beyond. The full backing of the community and local authorities could pave the way for a groundbreaking new era in entertainment within New York state.

For further details regarding the ongoing developments at Empire City Casino, click here or contact the casino directly at 914-968-4200.

Conclusion

Should the New York Gaming Commission approve the license, the transformational vision laid out by MGM Yonkers not only promises an enhanced gaming experience but also a formidable impact on the local economy and community spirit, ensuring that Yonkers remains a key player in the entertainment field for generations to come.