(AsiaGameHub) – Resorts World New York City has launched a live table games section in Queens, marking the debut of the city’s first full-scale casino of this nature following years of state-led gambling expansion initiatives.
Key Highlights
- Resorts World NYC has introduced over 240 live table games at its South Ozone Park location.
- The Queens-based casino now features roulette, baccarat, craps, and blackjack.
- Downstate casino projects from Hard Rock and Bally’s are not anticipated to launch until 2030.
Queens Gains First Live Casino Table Experience
Resorts World was able to act swiftly due to its decade-long history of operating electronic gaming and slot machines at the Aqueduct Racetrack location. The new gaming area debuted on Tuesday, just months after Genting was awarded one of the three available downstate casino licenses.
Robert DeSalvio, president of Genting Americas East, remarked:
“We received the license on December 15, and now, on April 28, we are opening our doors to guests on the new casino floor.”
The South Ozone Park facility now holds a competitive advantage in the New York City live table gaming sector. Located near John F. Kennedy International Airport, the property now offers dealer-managed games that previously required city residents to travel to neighboring states.
Genting secured its license while other prominent casino operators, such as MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, Las Vegas Sands, and Wynn Resorts, were unsuccessful. The company noted that it is subject to a 63% tax on slot revenue and a 30% tax on table game revenue. Its proposal also features a provision that allows its tax rate to align with competitors once other licensed casinos become operational.
Bally’s is developing a casino in the Bronx on a golf course acquired from The Trump Organization, while Hard Rock is collaborating with Steve Cohen on a venue near Citi Field. Both developments are slated for 2030.
Future Expansion Plans
The introduction of the table games floor marks the beginning of a broader $5 billion expansion for Resorts World NYC. This project encompasses an additional hotel wing, a 7,000-seat performance space, an indoor day club featuring pools, a spa, and what the company anticipates will be New York City’s inaugural sportsbook.
This phase of expansion has generated over 1,200 jobs, including numerous positions for dealers. Resorts World anticipates hiring an additional 500 staff members by the summer. While some dealers were recruited from out-of-state facilities, local residents are receiving training through a specialized dealer program.
State authorities estimate that the three downstate casinos could generate $7 billion in gaming tax revenue over the next decade. Furthermore, CBRE has projected that annual gaming revenue could reach as high as $5.6 billion once the facilities reach maturity.
The launch event was attended by community leaders, elected officials, entertainers, and patrons. Queens-born rapper and project partner Nas performed at the event and participated in the ceremonial first dice roll following the ribbon-cutting.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards declared:
“We have hit the jackpot, Queens!”
Queens Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato described the initiative as an “economic shot in the arm” for the South Ozone Park community.
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