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Plans to bring a Caesars Entertainment–backed casino to Times Square have been denied. On Wednesday, a community advisory committee voted 4–2 against the proposal, effectively halting the project before it could advance to the state’s Gaming Facilities Location Board for consideration.
The bid, led by SL Green Realty Corporation in partnership with Caesars, Roc Nation, and Live Nation, called for transforming the 54-story office tower at 1515 Broadway—home to the Minskoff Theatre and Viacom headquarters—into a mixed-use complex. The proposal included a casino above the Broadway theater, a Nobu hotel with nearly 1,000 rooms, celebrity-chef restaurants, a wellness retreat, nightclubs, and the Caesars Sportsbook at Jay-Z’s 40/40 Club.
Supporters projected 3,800 permanent jobs, $23.2 billion in gross gaming revenue over 10 years, and more than $7 billion in taxes and fees. They also pledged $250 million toward community initiatives, including security, cultural programs, and Broadway ticket access for underfunded families.
However, the plan drew fierce opposition from The Broadway League and its allies, including IATSE, the Shubert Organization, and local theater businesses. Opponents argued a casino would hurt Broadway attendance, increase congestion, and threaten neighborhood jobs. “A casino can go anywhere, but Broadway only lives here,” said Jason Laks, president of The Broadway League, praising the committee’s decision.
The rejection marks a significant setback for the Times Square bid, part of New York’s broader plan to approve three new casinos across the city’s five boroughs.
Jay-Z / Roc Nation Caesars Palace Times Square Casino Bid Was REJECTED After Being Voted Down By The Community Advisory Committee In A 4-2 Vote.
— Real1Of1TV (@Real1of1TV) September 17, 2025
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