Nas Secures Approval for Massive Queens Casino Expansion
In a significant development for New York City's gaming landscape, rapper Nas, whose real name is Nasir Jones, has emerged victorious in a high-stakes bid to expand Resorts World Casino in Queens. The Community Advisory Committee unanimously voted on September 25 to advance the $5.5 billion proposal, which aims to transform the existing casino at Aqueduct Racetrack into a full-scale integrated resort. This decision marks a major milestone for Nas and his partners at Resorts World New York City, who have been pushing for a full casino license to elevate the venue's offerings.
The ambitious plan includes a 350,000 square foot casino floor, 1,600 hotel rooms, a 7,000-seat entertainment venue, retail spaces, and a sports academy designed to foster job creation through an Innovation Campus. Nas, a native of Queens, has expressed a personal commitment to the project, emphasizing its potential to 'bring the future home' to his hometown. This approval positions Resorts World as a frontrunner in the competitive race for one of the limited full-scale casino licenses in New York State.
Jay-Z's Times Square Casino Bid Falls Short
In stark contrast, Jay-Z, whose real name is Shawn Carter, faced a setback as his bid to develop a Caesars Palace casino in Times Square was rejected by a separate Community Advisory Committee just weeks prior. The $5.4 billion proposal, backed by Roc Nation and SL Green, aimed to create a luxury destination with a hotel, celebrity chef-led restaurants, nightlife curated by Roc Nation, and a Caesars Sportsbook lounge tied to Jay-Z's 40/40 Club. Despite a pledge of $15 million to support the local community, the bid was voted down 4-2, halting plans for what Jay-Z described as a 'destination at the heart of the true crossroads of the world.'
The rejection drew public commentary, with Queens Borough President Donovan Richards taking a playful jab at Jay-Z during the Resorts World approval announcement. Richards reportedly said, 'Sorry Jay-Z, we win again,' referencing the long-standing rivalry between the two hip-hop icons that dates back to their famous feud in the early 2000s. While the two artists reconciled years ago, this latest development has reignited public interest in their competitive history.
Economic and Cultural Impact of Nas's Victory
The approval of the Resorts World expansion is poised to bring substantial economic benefits to Queens, with promises of significant tax revenue and job creation. Resorts World NYC has highlighted its short runway to operation and substantial tax contributions as key factors in its bid, despite past controversies involving the company's operations in Las Vegas. Local leaders and community members see the project as a transformative opportunity for Jamaica, Queens, enhancing the neighborhood's future prospects.
For Nas, this victory extends beyond business, carrying cultural weight as it ties directly to his roots in Queens. The project not only cements his influence in the borough but also underscores a narrative of hometown pride and community investment. As the proposal moves to the next stage for state gaming commission review, all eyes are on how this $5.5 billion endeavor will reshape the gaming and entertainment landscape in New York City.