The ambitious $5.5 billion Resorts World NYC casino project in Queens has received unanimous approval in a 6-0 vote from the Community Advisory Board,moving it one step closer to final authorization. The project, which includes a partnership with legendary rapper Nas, now awaits a crucial decision from the Gaming Facility Location Board. Resorts World officials are optimistic about an opening by July 2026, with the Aqueduct Park development poised to become one of the largest in the United States, spanning 350,000 square feet.

Robert DeSalvio, president of Genting Americas East, expressed gratitude for the Community Advisory Committee's recognition of the project's broad impact on Queens, New York City, and the State. He highlighted the overwhelming support from residents, partners, and supporters, noting that no opposition was voiced, which he described as a testament to their 15-year mission of being a positive community neighbor.

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Queens BoroughPresident Donovan Richards Jr. publicly acknowledged the victory, taking a jab at Jay-Z whose Roc Nation casino proposal was previously rejected by the CAC, effectively ending his hopes for a Times Square casino. Richards quipped, referencing Nas's involvement, that "Queens get the money," and extended his regards to the Brooklyn borough president.

Beyond a state-of-the-art casino featuring 30 eateries, the Resorts World complex will also boast a 7,000-person capacity entertainment venue, designed to host a variety of concerts, games, and events. Additionally, NBA champion Kenny “The Jet” Smith is set to contribute to the campus by helping to establish a sports and media complex. The project is projected to create 24,000 new jobs in Queens and generate an estimated $1 million in new revenue during its inaugural year of operation.

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Nas, who joined the Resorts World partnership in March 2024, emphasized the transformative potential, stating, “This is an ambitious project that will give new opportunities to the hard-working families who call Queens home, attract top-tier talent, and build up the next generation of leaders. Clearly, with this project, the world is ours.”

In related news, MGM Empire Casino’s bid to convert its Yonkers racino into a full-service casino was also approved, leaving only one gaming license remaining for New York State.