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Developers behind a proposed $12 billion casino complex at Hudson Yards are attempting to win over local opposition by pledging to invest 1% of gross revenues into community initiatives.
Wynn NYC-Related Companies announced their commitment would generate $197 million over a decade, along with an immediate $6.5 million donation to charitable organizations upon receiving their casino license.
Developer behind Hudson Yards casino promises $200M to butter up neighbors in face of growing opposition https://t.co/PKhNtlUiMh pic.twitter.com/Hri6Q4sL3r
— New York Post Metro (@nypmetro) February 14, 2025
The proposal faces significant resistance from local groups, including the community board and Friends of the High Line, which oversees the elevated park that would neighbor the development.
The developers maintain that their community reinvestment strategy would enhance, rather than diminish, the Hudson Yards and Chelsea neighborhoods. Their plan includes support for Chelsea’s community members, with special consideration for NYCHA residents through various grant programs.
The newly established Wynn New York City Community Foundation would operate with a $4 million yearly budget. Community representatives would serve on its board to ensure effective distribution of funds for improving West Chelsea’s quality of life.
The initiative would support several local organizations, including WINS’ Food Pantry, Hudson Guild’s social services, and Holy Apostles emergency food program. Additionally, the project would create employment and training opportunities for nearby public housing residents.
Alex Zablocki, executive director of the Public Housing Community Fund, emphasized the project’s potential impact on NYCHA residents through career development and educational opportunities.
The proposal also includes “The Wynn Creatives Initiative” to support Chelsea’s arts district, promising full proceeds to artists whose works are sold. The development would feature an on-site box office promoting various cultural attractions to boost tourism.
The ambitious project encompasses an 80-story riverfront tower housing the casino and hotel, surrounded by office buildings, residential towers, and a 5.6-acre park. It promises to create 5,000 permanent positions, with 60% requiring no college degree.
Despite these commitments, Community Board 4 unanimously rejected the proposed zoning change last month. Friends of the High Line’s executive director Alan Van Capelle stated, “The fact that Related and Wynn are now trying to buy our community off shows just how out of touch they are. They need to scrap this plan and do what they should have done in the first place — work with the community to develop the Western Rail Yards in a way that increases housing, creates new jobs and protects the High Line.”
While the community board’s vote is advisory, the project requires approval from both the City Council and Mayor Eric Adams’ administration.
The Hudson Yards casino bid is among four proposals requiring land use changes, competing alongside Steve Cohen’s $8 billion Queens project, Thor Equities’ Coney Island development, and Bally’s Bronx proposal.
The state Gaming Commission will ultimately select up to three casino licenses by year’s end, with additional contenders including Las Vegas Sands in Uniondale, SL Green/Caesar’s Entertainment/Jay-Z in Times Square, Soloviev/Mohegan Sun on the East River, and Silverstein Properties/Greenwood Gaming near the Javits Center.
