Weeks after a theatre union voiced opposition to a new casino project in Times Square, 17 trade unions have come forward in support.
Earlier this year, these unions also backed another casino project proposed near Citi Field. Both the Times Square and Citi Field casinos are among 11 bids competing for three downstate casino licenses, which will be awarded in 2025.
SL Green’s Chief Operations Officer, Ed Pinnich, expressed confidence in their proposal, stating, “Our reputation speaks for itself. Partnering with Caesars Palace strengthens our plan to boost hotel capacity, generate millions of additional meals, and benefit the surrounding hotels, bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues—not just at 1515 Broadway, where the casino will be located, but also in adjacent retail spaces.”
The Times Square casino project, led by Caesars Entertainment, Roc Nation, and SL Green, aims to redevelop an office building that currently hosts multiple theaters, including the long-running “The Lion King.” This initiative will create 6,000 new jobs, add 250,000 square feet of gaming space, build a 950-room hotel tower, and expand restaurant offerings.
One Times Square and the SoHo Group have publicly endorsed the project, sending a letter of support to Manhattan Borough leaders. They highlighted SL Green and Caesars’ strong history of collaboration with organized labor and noted agreements with several unions, including BCTC and HTC, along with commitments from local carpenters and freelancers unions.
While politicians aimed to open the bidding window earlier this summer, delays have pushed the timeline back. The application deadline is now June 27, 2025, with licenses set to be awarded by December 1, 2025.
