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Broadway Wins: Times Square Casino Proposal Backed by Caesars and Jay-Z Rejected
A bold plan to transform Times Square into the home of a massive casino—backed by Caesars Entertainment, SL Green Realty, Roc Nation, and Jay-Z—has been struck down. On Wednesday, a New York community advisory committee voted against the project, delivering a major setback to developers aiming for one of three new casino licenses in New York City.
The proposal centered on converting the 54-story tower at 1515 Broadway, which houses the Minskoff Theatre (home of The Lion King) and Viacom’s headquarters, into a glitzy casino complex. Plans included a luxury hotel, casino, celebrity chef-led restaurants, nightlife experiences curated by Roc Nation, and even a Caesars Sportsbook lounge in partnership with Jay-Z’s 40/40 Club.
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Broadway vs. the Casino
The fiercest opposition came from Broadway power players. The Broadway League, alongside IATSE, the Shubert Organization, and local businesses like Sardi’s, argued the casino would jeopardize the theater industry by worsening congestion, reducing attendance, and risking thousands of jobs tied to Broadway.
Jason Laks, president of the Broadway League, declared after the vote: “A casino can go anywhere, but Broadway only lives here. This was a vote to protect the magic of Broadway for the 100,000 New Yorkers who depend on it and the millions who visit every year.”
Even Playbills began carrying inserts urging audiences to “Save Broadway” from the casino threat.
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Supporters Cite Jobs and Revenue
Not everyone opposed the plan. Actors’ Equity and Local 802, representing actors and musicians, supported the proposal thanks to promised union job fairs and security upgrades. Developers projected 3,800 permanent jobs, $23.2 billion in gaming revenue over 10 years, and $7 billion in city and state taxes.
The group also pledged $250 million to community causes, including $80 million for Times Square safety programs designed by former NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton, $15 million for a civil rights museum with Rev. Al Sharpton, and $20 million for Broadway tickets for underfunded families.
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What’s Next for NYC’s Casino Race?
While this high-profile bid has collapsed, the race for three New York City casino licenses is still on. Competing proposals include sites in Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. With billions in projected revenue at stake, the battle over where—and how—casinos fit into the city’s cultural and economic landscape is far from over.
For now, Broadway remains the star of Times Square. The rejection underscores the cultural importance of New York’s theater district and its power to shape city policy against even the most high-profile entertainment giants.
