Potential Casino Space Approved in Wynn’s Manhattan Development Plan

Spearheaded by Related Companies in partnership with Wynn Resorts, the revised plan could pave the way for a large-scale commercial development that includes a potential casino – although officials have made clear that the approval does not guarantee a gaming facility will be built.

Originally envisioned as a largely residential development, the new plan shifts the focus toward commercial usage, citing financial infeasibility of luxury condos under current market conditions. While the revised project maintains a commitment to affordable housing, it introduces a broader commercial scope that includes the possibility of applying for one of New York State’s coveted casino licenses. This shift comes amidst a competitive process that began in early 2023 when the state opened applications for up to three downstate casino licenses.

Despite the buzz around a potential integrated resort in the heart of Manhattan, City Planning Commission Chair Dan Garodnick emphasized the limited scope of the vote. “While this is a significant proposal before us this morning, the scope of what we’re actually voting on is much narrower,” he said. “It is therefore our responsibility to help create the best site plan possible for this large project on a site that is limited by an active railway right below, and which has significant existing development rights for both residential and commercial activity.”

In addition to commercial and residential elements, the revised blueprint includes enhancements to public infrastructure. A new public space in the northeast corner of the site is expected to provide 5.6 acres of open space, contributing to the growing network of recreational areas in Hudson Yards. Garodnick called the area “a neighborhood jewel that adds to a growing network of public areas for residents, workers, and visitors.”

Though New York City has yet to host an integrated resort, interest from major players in the casino industry remains high. The Empire State has already demonstrated a robust appetite for gambling, particularly since the legalization of online sports betting in 2022. In fact, New York has regularly ranked among the top states for sports betting handle, consistently reporting monthly figures exceeding $2 billion since October 2024.

January 2025 marked a new milestone with a record $2.48 billion in wagers and $247 million in revenue—an impressive 15.7% year-on-year growth. These figures underscore the market potential for further gaming expansion in the state, with Manhattan being a particularly attractive prospect for operators looking to tap into both domestic and international tourism.

While the rezoning approval does not greenlight a casino outright, it lays crucial groundwork for developers to compete for one of the limited gaming licenses. As the application process unfolds, all eyes will be on how Related and Wynn position their Hudson Yards project in a crowded and high-stakes field.