Bally’s, which took over the former Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point in 2023, plans to transform the site into a sprawling 500,000-square-foot casino resort
The New York City Council has stopped a plan to build a large Bally’s casino complex in the Bronx. Speaker Adrienne Adams and the Council chose not to vote on a crucial bill that would have pushed the project forward. This pause leaves the casino proposal uncertain just weeks before an important state deadline.
Plans for Bally’s Bronx Casino Held Up Over Political Tensions and Land Use Rules
Bally’s, which gained control of the former Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point in 2023, plans to turn the area into a massive casino resort covering 500,000 square feet. Their $600 million plan includes building a hotel with 500 rooms, adding a spa, shops, a place for shows that can host 2,000 people, and two big parking structures. However, before they can start, the Council needs to give a “home rule” message. This would let Albany change how the land can be used, making it okay to build a casino there.
Bally’s Chairman Soo Kim has expressed annoyance about the holdup, hinting that political games and secret lobbying from rival casino bidders might be causing the Council to drag its feet, reported the New York Post. He said some politicians were falling for claims that a Bally’s license would help Donald Trump, given the former president’s link to the property. Kim brushed off this idea, stating the community, not Trump, would benefit the most and pointing to the expected surge in jobs, tax money, and local investment.
Trump-Linked Payout Clause in Bally’s Casino Deal Raises Concerns among NYC Officials
As part of its deal to buy the golf course, Bally’s promised to give the Trump Organization another $115 million only in case it gets a casino license. This condition has raised eyebrows and worry among some city officials, though insiders claim Trump’s possible profit is not the main reason for the vote delay.
In private meetings, Council members voiced frustration with Bally’s approach to lobbying, saying the company has not done enough to gain support from lawmakers. Without most members in favor, leaders will not bring the issue up for a vote.
The clock is ticking. The state legislature wraps up its session in mid-June, and casino license proposals for downstate areas need submission by June 27. The Council plans to meet again on June 11, giving a small chance for the proposal to advance.
Some people, like Bronx Republican Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato, still object. However, sources say several Democratic lawmakers who represent the borough keep trying to get enough votes to back the plan.
