Empire City Casino Contributes Over $5B to New York Education Since MGM Takeover

Empire City Casino Contributes Over $5B to New York Education Since MGM Takeover

By Michael Thompson

January 7, 2025 at 05:25 PM

MGM Resorts' Empire City Casino has generated over $5 billion for New York's education system since its 2019 acquisition. The Yonkers-based facility, purchased for $850 million, operates over 4,400 video lottery terminals (VLTs) with impressive daily earnings of $356 per machine.

Revenue distribution from Empire City Casino breaks down as follows:

  • 39.5% retained by Empire City
  • 50.5% allocated to New York State Education Fund
  • 10% goes to gaming manufacturers and Gaming Commission

The casino contributes approximately $25 million monthly to education, representing 30% of all VLT casino contributions statewide. Additionally, it generates substantial funding for harness racing and local government operations.

Gambler at casino slot machine

Gambler at casino slot machine

MGM's Future Plans for Empire City include:

  • Converting to a full-scale casino (pending license approval)
  • Adding live dealer table games
  • Introducing retail sports betting
  • Installing Vegas-style slot machines
  • Building a 5,000-seat entertainment venue
  • Adding new dining options and a late-night lounge

Recent improvements already completed include:

  • Racecourse enhancements
  • New VIP gaming room
  • Employee dining area upgrades
  • LED lighting installation

If granted a commercial casino license ($500 million fee), the proposed transformation would:

  • Create 2,500 direct jobs
  • Generate $1+ billion annual economic impact
  • Support 10,000+ indirect and induced jobs
  • Transform into MGM Empire City entertainment destination

The property currently maintains 4,448 VLT positions and continues to be a significant revenue generator for New York State's education system and local economy.

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