Wynn NYC Casino Plan Faces Unanimous Rejection from Manhattan Community Board Committee

Wynn NYC Casino Plan Faces Unanimous Rejection from Manhattan Community Board Committee

By Michael Thompson

December 13, 2024 at 11:00 PM

Wynn's proposed $12 billion casino development at Hudson Yards faces strong opposition from Manhattan Community Board 4's Land Use Committee, which unanimously rejected required zoning changes for the project.

Illuminated skyscrapers against dark city skyline

Illuminated skyscrapers against dark city skyline

The Related Companies and Wynn Resorts joint venture would significantly reduce residential units from 5,762 (agreed in 2009) to just over 1,500, while adding commercial spaces including a casino hotel.

Key concerns include:

  • Impact on local neighborhood character
  • Reduction in planned residential housing
  • Potential obstruction of High Line park views
  • Community resistance to a casino presence

Project supporters emphasize economic benefits:

  • 35,000 construction jobs
  • 5,000 permanent union positions
  • Significant local economic stimulus

Related CEO Jeff Blau warned against repeating the "Amazon Two" scenario, referencing New York's lost opportunity when Amazon withdrew its second headquarters plans in 2019 amid opposition.

The community board's opinion, while non-binding, could influence New York regulators' decision on downstate casino licenses, expected in late 2025. The Friends of the High Line organization particularly opposes the development's potential impact on the iconic park, while labor groups strongly support the project's job creation potential.

Wynn Resorts views New York as a key market for U.S. expansion beyond its current properties in Las Vegas and Boston. While opposition groups acknowledge casinos will eventually come to New York City, they prefer locations outside their neighborhood.

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