|
|
The Adams administration has unveiled a comprehensive zoning proposal that could pave the way for casino development in New York City. Unlike the current zoning regulations in the city, the proposed changes would allow casinos to be established in any manufacturing zone and almost all commercial zones, with minimal restrictions on their scale. The scope of the proposal extends beyond just casinos, as developers can add additional facilities within the casino premises, such as restaurants, hotels, bars, and performance venues.
City officials believe these sweeping changes are well-received by recipients of casino licenses, as they streamline the regulatory process. It is seen as a more attractive option, attempting to position New York against neighboring regions where, under existing zoning regulations, casinos are currently not permitted.
Dan Galodner, head of the Department of City Planning and the City Planning Commission, emphasized the importance of establishing a fair competitive environment for casino applicants in New York. He noted that creating such an environment is crucial, as the nation considers casinos in the South, allowing New York applicants to compete for this opportunity.
Meanwhile, several bids for casinos have already surfaced for prime locations such as Times Square, Hudson Yards, and Coney Island. Some industry insiders believe that racetrack-based casinos and existing "racinos" like the Resorts World Casino at Aqueduct Racetrack and Empire City Casino have an advantage, as they already have a presence on tracks with electronic slot machines.
The proposed zoning changes are expected to undergo a rigorous approval process, involving local community boards, borough presidents, borough boards, the City Planning Commission, City Council, and the mayor. If approved, the amendments would expedite the process for selected casino projects, bypassing the traditional lengthy and complex land-use review. However, the proposal's lack of specificity has caught the attention of civic leaders. Leila LaGisico, Chair of the Manhattan Community Board Five Land Use Committee, expressed confusion over the vague nature of the proposal, especially considering the detailed requirements for other zoning revisions.
Critics point out apparent contradictions in the proposal, such as exempting casino developers from special permit requirements for new hotel developments in 2021 to reduce adverse impacts on local communities. The ambiguity of the proposal has prompted calls for a more detailed and robust review process to ensure responsible development of potential casino complexes in the city. |
|
Post time 12-12-2023 10:17:08