Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano recently voiced his unabashed support for the racino currently known as the Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts being awarded one of the state’s three downstate casino licenses.
Minor Name Change Has Major Implications
The racino in Yonkers is currently branded as the Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts, but if it should be granted one of the state’s three downstate casino licenses, it would be rebranded as MGM Empire City. The name is not all that different, but a full casino license could determine its survival.
As of right now, the Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts only has the right to offer video lottery terminal games, similar to slots, and live harness racing adjacent to it at Yonkers Raceway.
However, should it be awarded one of the full gaming casino licenses by the state, of which a total of 11 projects are on the table, then not only would the name change, but it would also become a full-scale casino replete with actual slot machines, live table games, and a retail sportsbook.
The facility would also undergo a $2 billion renovation, which would bring a Las Vegas-style glitz and glamour to Yonkers and could “potentially (be) the most significant boost to our economy going forward,” according to Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano. In his estimation, a Class III gaming license is vital to the city, and without it, the Empire City Casino may not last with three new full casinos available to its patrons.
Yonkers Could Be a Destination
All casino bids must be submitted by June, and December 1st, 2025, is the deadline for the New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) to award those three coveted licenses. According to Mayor Spano, the Yonkers project should win one of those licenses; otherwise, it may cease to exist.
“If Yonkers does not get a full gaming license and it’s allowed to go to other locations in the New York City area, then unfortunately it’s very unlikely that Empire City will survive long-term,” said Spano.
Spano’s vision of a Class III casino license in his city would transform it from just another dot on the map to a tourist destination.
“No longer is Yonkers a pass-through to New York City or upstate,” Spano stated.
“A full gaming license … means more than $1 billion in economic activity and $2 billion in private investment. It means thousands of jobs and more than $200 million in additional wages,” Spano said.
MGM Eyes Major Expansion
Bill Hornbuckle, MGM Resorts president and chief executive officer, said, “MGM Resorts has a long and proud history of delivering world-class entertainment and gaming experiences, and we couldn’t be more excited to build on that track record at MGM Empire City. A full-scale casino and entertainment destination will provide unparalleled experiences, create thousands of jobs, boost the state’s economy, and be a game-changer for the entire region.”
The $2 billion renovation would add a parking garage “to significantly enhance the guest arrival experience while also providing visitors with direct and convenient access to the casino,” as well as a 5,000-seat entertainment venue and several aesthetic upgrades.
