A New Jersey racetrack operator has said building a casino in the Meadowlands could become reality if voters pull the lever to do so, according to a recent Associated Press report.
Casino development was a key topic at the East Coast Gaming Congress, although the discussion raised concerns that casinos outside of Atlantic City might not be a good thing.
During the conference, several executives discussed the topic of the growing casino market in New York and the effect these new facilities could have on Atlantic City’s businesses.
Several in attendance shared their thoughts on the potential threat new casinos in New York City pose to Atlantic City casinos.
One was Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, who expressed his thoughts during the conference and told the Associated Press, “Now more than ever we know there’s a threat coming with New York City gaming coming.
“We understand the threat. We want to continue to work together to do things right to put Atlantic City into a prime position, no matter where these casinos are, that we diversify our options.”
Hard Rock International Chairman Jim Allen stressed that Atlantic City’s casinos “have to be prepared” for additional competition setting up shop nearby.
He said he believes that in-person Atlantic City revenues could experience a 20% to 30% decline “if as many as three casinos open in or close to New York City.”
One project in the works is a plan to build a casino that would be in the parking lot adjacent to Citi Field.
Mets owner and billionaire Steve Cohen has proposed to construct the casino, along with a park and entertainment complex by using one of three casino licenses available downstate.
