MGM Resorts International has submitted a commercial casino license application to the New York State Gaming Commission to redevelop a venue in Yonkers, a New York City suburb.
MGM hopes to transform its historic Empire City Casino site into a commercial casino and entertainment destination. The entire project is expected to cost around $2.3 billion.
Should MGM get the green light, it will carry out widespread changes at the Yonkers venue. These include expanding the gaming areas, adding a high-limit lounge and introducing an in-property sportsbook.
Meanwhile, MGM plans to add a 5,000-capacity entertainment venue and meeting space to the site. Other aspects include three new restaurants, the renovation of existing food and beverage venues, and a large parking garage.
MGM is hoping to complete all project elements by mid-2029, subject to licensing approval.
“Empire City Casino and Yonkers Raceway have anchored the entertainment and tourism culture in downstate New York for more than a century,” MGM Resorts President and CEO Bill Hornbuckle said.
“Achieving a full casino license will ensure this site will continue to be a cultural and economic force for generations to come.”
MGM to Support Local Community and Economy
Within its application, MGM set out how the project would benefit Yonkers. The group would commit 20% of tax revenue to the local community. Of this, 10% would go to the city of Yonkers, 5% to Westchester County and 5% would be split between Rockland and Putnam counties.
The application also includes investments to support public infrastructure in Yonkers. Among these are improvements to roads, water lines and traffic technology. Meanwhile, MGM has included efficient methods to conserve water and harness solar energy as part of its license application.
In addition, MGM noted it expects the project to create “thousands” of direct, induced and indirect jobs.
MGM’s existing Empire City Casino opened in 2006, with the group having taken control of the venue in 2019.
