NY Senate Backs Cohen's $8B Citi Field Casino Plan

The New York State Senate has approved a bill, sponsored by Sen. John Liu, allowing Mets owner Steve Cohen to repurpose 50 acres of state parkland near Citi Field for his $8 billion Metropolitan Park project, which includes a casino, entertainment venues, restaurants, a hotel, and a public park. The bill, which previously passed the Assembly, awaits Governor Kathy Hochul's signature, while the casino proposal must still secure one of three downstate casino licenses, with a decision expected by the end of the year. Supporters claim the project will create thousands of jobs, benefit small businesses, and provide over a billion dollars in infrastructure improvements. Local State Sen. Jessica Ramos and community activists remain opposed, citing neighborhood impacts and concerns over Cohen's influence. Notably, Metropolitan Park is the only casino proposal to have received approval from a local community board. Cohen and his partners are also committed to developing affordable housing, new parkland, and transit upgrades as part of the plan.