Sign In
Book Now
Queens, NY (February 29, 2024) – Following Resorts World New York City (RWNYC) unveiling of a once-in-a-generation project set to not only transform the entertainment landscape in New York City but benefit all Empire State residents through massive job creation, the development of a world-class entertainment resort and the delivery of billions in tax revenue, elected officials and key community leaders publicly announced their support for the multibillion-dollar plan.
Here’s what they’re saying:
“Southeast Queens has always dreamed of a project such as this, which will put a full entertainment, gaming, and community destination within minutes of JFK Airport,” said Congress Member Gregory Meeks. “We continue the fight for jobs, greenspace, housing, and mass transit improvements for a generation. I want to thank Resorts World New York City for this proposal and seeing what many of us knew our entire lives: Southeast Queens is the place to be.”
“The new Resorts World is going to completely change New York City for the better, but nowhere more than the surrounding communities,” said State Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr., Chair of the Senate Committee on Racing, Gaming and Wagering. “Having worked with Resorts World for nearly 15 years, I am astounded by the magnitude of what this project has to offer. It encompasses job creation, parks, and entertainment, all located right here in Queens. This isn’t a pipe dream or some far-off proposal; it’s a tangible development with a positive impact that the city and state should be able to witness as soon as possible.”
“Resorts World has been an amazing partner to the surrounding community over the last 12 years, and this project is a testament to the future of our shared vision for the World’s Borough of Queens,” said State Senator Leroy Comrie, Chair of the Senate Committee on Corporations, Authorities and Commissions and member of the Senate Committee on Racing, Gaming and Wagering. “This proposal will elevate Resorts to an international leisure, entertainment, and gaming destination – in just a matter of years. Resorts World has presented a compelling blueprint with hopes to continue to develop this site to create housing, improve access to greenspace, and deliver mass transit improvements. In the process, all of New York State will benefit from the revenue generated to fund vital services.”
“Resorts World’s expansion in Southeast Queens will be a great economic support to all boroughs,” said State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud. “The plan’s entertainment destination offers something for everyone which is a win for all of New York City.”
“Resorts World’s impact extends far beyond its immediate community,” said Assembly Member Michaelle Solages, Assembly Deputy Majority Leader; Chair of The New York State Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Legislative Caucus; and member of the Assembly Committee on Racing and Wagering. “This isn’t just a win for Queens; it’s a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and increased tourism that solidifies Resorts World as a beacon of opportunity throughout the broader landscape of New York.”
“In the ongoing effort to secure additional resources for our community, Resorts World has proven itself as a vital pillar in Southeast Queens and the Rockaway Peninsula,” said Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato, Member of the Assembly Committee on Racing and Wagering. “This proposed development, which could begin construction as soon as this year, not only promises to create jobs and attract visitors but also symbolizes a step forward in the revitalization of our community. The Genting Innovation Campus will add an extra layer of cultural impact that will be felt throughout our borough. I cannot wait to see the positive impact this proposal will have on generations of Queens residents to come.”
“Recognizing the potential it holds for the educational and economic growth of our Queens community, Resorts World New York City has been an MVP in our pursuit of a thriving Queens economy,” said Assembly Member Alicia Hyndman. “Their outstanding commitment to community development, evident in their contributions to the state’s public education fund, reinforces the potential for this bid to bring new jobs, support our schools, and enhance the future of Southeast Queens. Reimagining the facility into a world-class destination will be a huge win for all of us here in New York State.”
“Resort World has been a tremendous neighbor and community partner to Southeast Queens. The idea of expanding their footprint and the job opportunities they offer is very exciting. As co-Chair of the Queens Delegation, I am optimistic Queens will walk away victorious in this casino license process,” said Council Member Nantasha Williams.
“Resorts World New York City came into our community more than a dozen years ago, and every day since has been a dedicated neighbor who shows up, hears our feedback, and responds to our needs,” Betty Braton, Chair of Queens Community Board 10. “They have been with us in good times and tough times ever since, giving both financial support and their time to this community. I know this partnership will only continue as Resorts World answers the immediate needs but also presents a vision for the future.”
“The Resorts World team has proven to be an invaluable partner, not only donating funds to our hospitals but dedicating their time and energy to our causes,” said Bruce Flanz, President & CEO of Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. “They have supported us over the years and have demonstrated their commitment to improving the overall wellness of Queens communities by investing in crucial healthcare initiatives. The new Community Health and Wellness Center at the Genting Innovation Campus will only improve the strength of the neighborhoods we serve.”
“I want to thank Resorts World for its support of Gumbo University and our efforts to help young people, including young people from many diverse communities, to enhance their leadership skills, ability to communicate and their ability to build careers of purpose and excellence,” said Marc Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League. “This commitment is consistent with a strong pledge to be a responsible corporate citizen in the state of New York.”
“Thanks to the ongoing growth and success of Resorts World in Queens, students and educators across the borough, city, and state have received billions of dollars in funds generated by the company for public education,” said Tom Grech, President & CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce. “One of the most exciting things they’ve done is partner with surrounding organizations to ensure everyone feels their success. Resorts World’s contribution to our State’s education system not only demonstrates the positive impact the company has had during its first dozen years but the potentially greater impact its expansion can have in the future.”
“Over the past 12 years, Resorts World has consistently gone the extra mile to be more than a casino. They have been an essential part of the fabric of Queens and are a model community partner, especially uplifting underserved neighborhoods,” said Peter Tu, General Consultant of the Flushing Chinese Business Association. “Resorts World’s expansion is a crucial part of the City’s post-pandemic economic recovery and revitalization. We especially want New Yorkers and visitors to patronize this casino right here in Queens instead of having to go to New Jersey and Connecticut, sooner than later.”
About Resorts World New York City (RWNYC)
RWNYC is the Big Apple’s first and only casino-hotel and has generated more than $4 billion for the State’s public education system since opening 2011. RWNYC fulfills the decades-long mission to turn the historic Aqueduct Racetrack into a gaming destination with approximately 6,500 slot machines and electronic table gaming. More than five million guests pass through RWNYC’s doors annually, where they enjoy an extraordinary gaming, entertainment, and dining experience. In 2021, the 400-room Hyatt Regency JFK Airport hotel at RWNYC opened its doors — bringing the total investment at the site to $1.1 billion. Guests can choose from several dining options including the recently reopened RW Prime and Good Friends Noodle House. RWNYC is operated by the Genting Group, a global company founded in 1965, with destination resorts in the Catskills, Hudson Valley, Las Vegas, Bimini, Malaysia, Singapore, and the United Kingdom. Genting has more than 50 years of experience in the travel and leisure industry and collectively employs approximately 47,000 people while offering an unparalleled resort experience to over 50 million visitors a year worldwide.
