$8.1B Queens Casino Hits Roadblock Despite Winning License
The $8.1B Metropolitan Park casino near Citi Field is stalled after the NYC Public Design Commission delayed its vote over design and flooding concerns.Summary
The proposed $8.1 billion Metropolitan Park casino near Citi Field in Queens remains stalled after the New York City Public Design Commission unanimously postponed its approval vote last week. Commissioners raised questions about design elements, including accessibility and stormwater management. A November 2024 internal memo obtained by the City Reporter highlighted concerns about flooding and land subsidence at the site. Former NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue warned the park could worsen flooding and restrict public access, and the memo questioned the park's connection to Flushing Meadows Corona Park and the planned removal of 575 trees. The development team plans to plant over 1,000 trees across 25 acres. The casino, backed by New York Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International, received a state gaming license in December 2025 after earlier city land-use approvals. It would transform about 50 acres of parking lots into a resort with a hotel, live music venue, restaurants, and public green space. Despite continued community opposition, much of the design commission hearing focused on the morality of gambling. Commissioner Merrill Tisch noted the commission can only address public access and safety within the development, not reconsider the casino authorization. Opponents like Jack Hu of No Casino FMCP rejected the idea the project is a done deal. Community Board 3 approved the project 26-8 with three abstentions. The project still faces design review, and a March 2026 lawsuit by Queens residents seeks to overturn the casino license.
(Source：Joliet, IL Patch)