Queens is officially on the verge of becoming New York City’s casino capital with a little help from hometown legend Nas.
Resorts World NYC, which partnered with the hip-hop icon, scored a unanimous 6-0 approval vote from the Community Advisory Board to move forward with its $5.5 billion casino project in Southeast Queens. The proposal now advances to the Gaming Facility Location Board for final sign-off.
If approved, the sprawling 350,000-square-foot complex at Aqueduct Park is slated to open its doors by July 2026, making it one of the largest casinos in the U.S.
The development promises a state-of-the-art gaming facility, 30 restaurants, and a 7,000-seat entertainment venue designed to host concerts, games, and major events.
“On behalf of the entire Resorts World team, I want to thank the Community Advisory Committee for recognizing the impact we will have not only on Queens but all of New York City and State,” said Robert DeSalvio, president of Genting Americas East. “We are incredibly grateful to the large number of residents, partners, and supporters who touted this project, without a single person speaking against it. This is a testament to our mission – solidified over the last 15 years – to be the best neighbor possible here in Queens.”
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. couldn’t resist adding a little borough pride to the celebration, referencing Nas while also taking a playful jab at Jay-Z. Roc Nation’s Times Square casino proposal was struck down by the same board just last week.
“There’s a theme in Queens, and I know that Nas was a part of this: Queens get the money. Sorry, Jay-Z, we win again,” Richards joked. “You can let the Brooklyn borough president know that I send my regards to him.”
With unanimous support and major backing, Resorts World NYC is poised to bring jobs, tourism, and cultural impact to a borough that has long been central to New York’s story.
The ball is now in the state’s court. If the Gaming Facility Location Board signs off, Queens could soon be home to one of the country’s premier gaming and entertainment destinations.
