UPDATE: The highly anticipated Metropolitan Park project, spearheaded by New York Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International, is making significant strides, with new applications submitted just before the October 14 deadline. This ambitious plan aims to transform the parking areas around Citi Field into a sprawling entertainment complex projected to generate over $33 billion in tax revenue over the next 30 years.
The Metropolitan Park project is not just about entertainment; it promises to create approximately 40,000 jobs in Queens. Developer estimates indicate that the initiative will produce around 17,000 direct construction jobs and an additional 25,000 indirect positions. Once operational, the complex is expected to sustain 6,000 permanent jobs, with the overall long-term impact potentially exceeding 40,000 jobs when considering secondary employment.
The project will span 50 acres, featuring a 25-acre public park, a Hard Rock hotel and casino, and a vibrant food hall called “Taste of Queens” that will showcase local vendors. Infrastructure improvements are also at the forefront, including upgrades to the Willets Point subway station and the addition of new walkways and bike paths.
From a financial perspective, the project team has proposed an immediate payment of a $500 million license fee, alongside a 25% tax on slot machine earnings and a 10% tax on table game profits. Once fully operational, the casino is expected to generate approximately $3.9 billion annually, translating to about $850 million in taxes for the state and city each year.
In an urgent update, Hard Rock International has confirmed its readiness to commence construction as soon as it receives the necessary license in December. The proposed gaming facility will include 5,000 slot machines, 375 table games, 30 poker tables, and an 18,000-square-foot sportsbook, making it one of the largest gaming floors in the region.
Community engagement has been a priority, with the project team conducting 16 public workshops over the past four years and engaging tens of thousands of local residents. Support for the project has been robust, with all six nearby community boards backing the initiative and the Community Advisory Committee expressing full support last month.
Earlier this year, the project overcame significant legal hurdles when the City Council and state legislature voted to reclassify the parking lot land from parkland to commercial use, clearing the way for development. Currently, three candidates remain in the running for a downstate casino license, including Metropolitan Park, Resorts World in South Ozone Park, and Bally’s in the Bronx. The Gaming Facility Location Board is set to announce the winning bids by the end of the year, keeping the spotlight on this transformative project.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops, with the potential for a major economic impact on Queens and beyond.