New York's most expansive integrated resort, a ambitious project by Resorts World, is revealed.
In a bid to revolutionise the entertainment landscape in New York, Resorts World has proposed a groundbreaking $5.5 billion integrated resort project at the Aqueduct site in Queens. If approved, the project could become operational by mid-2026, potentially as early as July 2026 [1][2][3].
The development, which involves converting the existing electronic gaming facility into New York’s largest integrated resort, will take place on a 73-acre site and feature 5.6 million square feet of space [1][2][3]. The project includes a 2,000-room hotel, a 7,000-seat arena, and over 30 dining venues, making it a major entertainment and tourism hub in Queens with Las Vegas-style casino gaming [1][3].
The project's "ready-to-go" status, due to the existing approvals and prior site development, minimises construction and operational risks, according to Resorts World’s Chief Legal and Strategy Officer, Kevin Jones [1][2]. If Resorts World obtains one of the three new downstate New York casino licenses, the proposed integrated resort would be the largest in the US [1][4].
The economic impacts of the project are significant. It is projected to generate millions of dollars of tax revenue, boost the local and state economy through construction, operation, employment, and tourism, and create up to 24,000 jobs [1][2]. More than 80% of the venue's employees are people of color, and close to half are women [1][3].
Resorts World New York City is currently the largest employer for the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council, AFL-CIO, with over 1,000 members receiving full benefits and average salaries of $80,000 [1][3]. The project also includes over 7,000 parking spots and community greenspace, serving local community interests as well [1][2].
If approved, the project will also spur an additional $5 billion investment in workforce housing (3,000 units), parklands (50 acres), improved transportation, and community projects, further multiplying economic and social benefits [4]. The luxury amenities, including a Crockfords hotel (part of Hilton’s LXR portfolio), a large conference space (350,000 sq ft), spa services, and entertainment venues, will enhance Queens' profile as a destination and contribute to downstream economic activity [1][4].
Robert DeSalvio, Genting Americas East's President, mentioned that Resorts World has invested millions in local neighbourhoods and plans to create thousands of new jobs [5]. The entertainment hub, upon completion, will house 6,000 slot machines and 800 gaming tables, making it the largest casino floor space among competing bids [1][3]. Many of Resorts World New York City's employees live within five miles of the venue, helping keep salaries in the local community [1][3].
In conclusion, if Resorts World is awarded a casino license, the $5.5 billion project could become a reality within roughly one year and generate substantial economic development, business activity, tourism, and community investments in Queens and the greater New York area by mid-2026 [1][2][3][4].
[1] Resorts World New York City. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.rwnewyork.com/ [2] Resorts World New York City. (2021, September 21). Retrieved from https://www.rwnewyork.com/news/resorts-world-new-york-city-submits-application-for-downstate-new-york-casino-license [3] Resorts World New York City. (2021, October 26). Retrieved from https://www.rwnewyork.com/news/resorts-world-new-york-city-submits-application-for-downstate-new-york-casino-license [4] Resorts World New York City. (2021, November 9). Retrieved from https://www.rwnewyork.com/news/resorts-world-new-york-city-submits-application-for-downstate-new-york-casino-license [5] Resorts World New York City. (2021, October 26). Retrieved from https://www.rwnewyork.com/news/resorts-world-new-york-city-submits-application-for-downstate-new-york-casino-license
- The integrated resort project by Resorts World, if approved, will feature casino gaming, including over 6,000 slot machines and 800 gaming tables, resembling a Las Vegas-style casino atmosphere.
- In addition to casino-games, the project will encompass other amenities such as a 2,000-room hotel, a 7,000-seat arena, and over 30 dining venues, transforming it into a major entertainment and tourism hub in Queens, reminiscent of casino-culture.
- The project also includes discussions about the possibility of incorporating lotteries and other games of chance, further expanding its casino-and-gambling offerings.
