New York: Queens' Metropolitan Park casino project gains local support but still faces regulatory hurdles

All five Queens community boards tasked with reviewing the proposed Metropolitan Park development, an $8 billion project led by New York Mets owner Steve Cohen, have approved the plan, signaling broad community support for transforming 50 acres of Citi Field's parking lot into a casino, hotel, and entertainment complex with ample green space.  

Cohen, partnering with Hard Rock International, aims to secure one of three downstate casino licenses for the project, which would feature a Hard Rock casino as its centerpiece. Additional plans include a 25-acre public park, athletic fields, bike paths, a food hall, a concert venue, and upgraded transit facilities, among other features.

The proposal was reviewed by boards representing communities near Flushing Meadows Corona Park, the designated area for the development. Cohen’s team, led by Chief of Staff Michael Sullivan, presented the project to each board.

Former council members and other prominent figures voiced their support, highlighting the potential economic benefits. However, opposition came from groups like Guardians of Flushing Bay, who raised environmental concerns at several meetings.  

The most recent meeting at the Queens Public Library’s Langston Hughes branch on November 21 drew over 100 attendees, debating the development’s merits and challenges. Community Board 3 voted overwhelmingly to approve zoning modifications for the project, joining the other four boards in endorsing the plan.  

While these approvals mark a significant milestone, the project still faces several hurdles. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, who has expressed support, must formally approve the plan. It will then proceed to New York’s City Planning Commission and city council for review. Additionally, a local advisory committee is expected to deliberate on the project next year.  

One of the most significant obstacles is obtaining state approval for a parkland alienation bill, as the parking lot is still legally designated as city parkland. State Senator Jessica Ramos, whose district includes Citi Field, has declined to sponsor the bill, and Cohen has yet to find another legislator to introduce it. The legislation is a legal prerequisite for converting the land for commercial use.  

Moreover, the project is one of 11 vying for the three available casino licenses, meaning there is plenty of competition for the casino permits. The state’s gaming facility location board is not expected to announce its decisions until late 2025.  

Cohen has pledged $1 billion in community benefits if the project is approved. This includes $10 million for a health clinic in East Elmhurst, another $10 million for a youth and senior center in Corona, $5 million for addiction and mental health services in Flushing, and initiatives to support responsible gaming.