There will not be a casino constructed on Long Island. At least not now.
Las Vegas Sands has officially stepped away from its plan to build a casino and resort at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale. The company is citing concerns over the potential impact of legalized online gambling, known as iGaming, on the market.
Company executives worry that iGaming could hurt their financial returns. "We strongly believe in the development opportunity for a land-based casino license in New York," the company said in a statement. Despite its confidence in the Nassau Coliseum as a prime location, Las Vegas Sands explained that the risks associated with iGaming led them to reconsider their pursuit of a New York gaming license.
This has been a long process that included deadline extensions and public hearings. But this is not the first time we have heard this.
Sands Looking For 'Alternative Development Program'
But hope is not lost. Las Vegas Sands is now looking to transfer its bidding opportunity to another party.
"In order to keep maximum optionality for development at the site, the company will be continuing work to secure all entitlements necessary to both allow a third party to bid for a casino license as well as effect an alternative development program," the statement read.
The company is actively seeking an agreement with a third party that can manage both land-based and digital markets in New York. "There is strong interest from gaming organizations," said Chris Boyle, spokesperson for the Nassau County executive. Any successful agreement would keep the Nassau Coliseum site in the running for casino development.
Community Voiced Concerns Over Nassau Coliseum Casino
The announcement has been met with relief by some local organizations.
Critics of the casino project, such as the civic group “Say No To The Casino,” had raised concerns about environmental and traffic impacts. "I could not be more pleased. It's kind of everything we've been working towards," said Richard Williams from the group. He spoke with News 12 Long Island.
The project also faced substantial opposition from Uniondale residents and Hofstra University.
In a statement sent to The New York Post, University President Susan Poser expressed satisfaction with Sands' decision to withdraw its application. "Hofstra University is pleased with Las Vegas Sand’s decision to abandon their application for a license to build a casino at the Nassau Coliseum. Over the past 90 years, Hofstra has been deeply invested in the future of this region, and we are eager to be a part of planning for development in the Nassau Hub that would promote sustainable economic growth, enhance the quality of life for all who live and work here, and serve the true needs of Nassau County and Long Island," Poser said.
As discussions continue, Hofstra University and local groups emphasize the importance of development approaches that cater to the long-term needs of the community. The focus now shifts to planning initiatives that can bring lasting benefits to the Nassau Hub, enhancing both economic growth and quality of life for residents in the area.
Nassau County is now deciding whether to continue exploring a casino development or focus on alternative plans for the site. County representatives anticipate making a decision within the next 30 days.
The Future of the Nassau Coliseum Site
While Las Vegas Sands is stepping back, the future of the Nassau Coliseum site remains uncertain.
The company plans to continue securing entitlements to maintain development options. Meanwhile, community groups urge developers to consider other possibilities that align with Nassau County’s long-term vision. "We're not anti-development," said Monica Kiely of "Say No to the Casino." "Build something better here."
As the conversation continues, the fate of the Nassau Coliseum site, and whether it will host a casino, lies in the hands of local stakeholders and potential new developers.
The venue is situated approximately 7 miles east of the eastern limits of the borough of Queens in New York City.
Lobbying For Downstate Casino Licenses Continues
The Nassau Coliseum casino project is the second one to die in the past month. Saks Fifth Avenue also recently dropped its casino bid,
Multiple developers are vying for three licenses. Some of the other proposals include Bally's ambitious plan to build a casino in the Bronx, next to the Bally's golf course at Ferry Point and Mets Owner Steve Cohen's plan to build around Citi Field.
A casino is part of a plan developers say would revamp Coney Island. Another would transform the land around Times Square, and there's a bid from Resorts World New York City.
Applications are due by June, with zoning and other approvals needed by September 30. The final decision on who gets the licenses is expected in December.
