Summary:
- The Chickasaw Nation’s Coney Island casino bid was discussed in front of the Community Advisory Committee in Brooklyn.
- The project would generate 9,000 new union jobs while attracting significant growth in the local economy.
- Plan includes a hotel, several restaurants and a convention center.
“Coney Island is ready for renewal. New York is ready for a world-class casino”. This is how the Chickasaw Nation chose to start off its presentation video for a potential $3.4 billion casino in Coney Island.
The video also showcased sweeping shots of the ocean and boardwalk, all part of the high-stakes push to bring the massive casino and entertainment development to one of Brooklyn’s most iconic neighborhoods.
It all unfolded in front of the state gaming commission’s advisory committee in Brooklyn.
The Coney, “Much More Than Just the Casino”
It was the first of eight presentations scheduled for groups competing for one of three coveted downstate casino licenses expected to be awarded later this year.
Developers didn’t refrain from promising big things, including thousands of jobs, tourism dollars, and a revitalized destination.
Undersecretary of the Chickasaw Nation Paul Pippin emphasized the economic stakes. He pointed to the nearly 20% unemployment rate in the area, which is four times the national average, arguing the project could generate 9,000 union jobs with a strong focus on hiring locally.
The planned five-acre complex would include far more than just a gaming floor, with designs featuring a 500-room hotel, a convention center, a 2,400-seat performance venue, and 20 restaurants that would turn Coney Island into a year-round attraction.
“The Coney” would also feature 1.4 million square feet of casino space along with retail and event space.
We’re not looking just to place a Las Vegas-style casino in the middle of Coney Island. This project is much more than just the casino. We’re trying to develop a rich background to make this a rebirth of this beloved landmark.
Support from 10,000 People and Counting
Proponents say they’ve gathered over 10,000 petition signatures and received more than 600 letters of support. However, as expected, not everyone is on board.
Local resident Bethanne Frazer believes the development in itself would erode the character of the neighborhood.
I don’t think it’s going to make it any better. It’s going to obstruct what makes it beautiful here. I’m not sure a casino is the best way to serve our community.
Others voiced concerns about traffic and infrastructure, mentioning the 3,000 daily cars that will be expected on the premises, which would automatically generate “a parking problem”.
State Assemblymember Alec Brook-Krasny went even further, envisioning an additional million cars a day, which would cause 50,000 people to live “in jeopardy in case of emergency.” The Assemblymember went on to comment on the necessity of “adequate transportation”.
As the selection process continues, public hearings and more presentations from competing applicants are expected before final decisions are made in December.
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