Though Las Vegas Sands has exited Las Vegas, it could have a chance to debut in New York City. The casino operator signed a 99-year lease agreement for development on the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum site, which could include a casino.
Nassau County’s 80-acre site in Long Island is one of several downstate properties vying for a casino license in the Empire State, though only three licenses are available. Sands Chairman and CEO, Rob Goldstein, and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman explained that this lease is the first step in Sands’ bid to apply via the New York’s Gaming Facility Location Board (NYGFLB).
In January, when it was decided that three gaming licenses would be awarded, Sands stated that it would create community spaces, four-to-five-star hotel rooms and a performance venue along with a casino in Long Island. However, a 19-member Nassau County Legislature must approve of the development plans.
On May 22, the issue is scheduled to be addressed with this legislative committee. If the Nassau County Legislature approves the lease agreement, Sands still needs to bid – and compete against operators like Mohegan, Caesars, Wynn Resorts and Hard Rock International, among others.
Casino gaming is currently planned to represent less than 10% of Sands’ overall resort and development, but it still must apply for a license through the NYGFLB.
Goldstein said, “Our company’s track record of driving significant economic benefits to communities in which we operate, and the meaningful relationships and partnerships we have created in each, gives us a unique perspective on what it takes to develop transformative tourism destinations that positively impact the local community.”
The NYGFLB is expected to receive and process bids during the remainder of 2023. Goldstein stated that he may not know if Sands makes the cut until early 2024.
The May/June issue of Gaming America will closely examine the New York casino license bidding process.
