**State Senator Introduces Bill to Advance $8B Casino Project Near Citi Field**
New York Mets owner Steve Cohen’s ambitious $8-billion casino and entertainment complex proposed for the area adjacent to Citi Field has gained renewed momentum. In a significant development, State Senator John Liu has introduced legislation aimed at redesignating the stadium’s surrounding parking lots—currently classified as public parkland—for commercial use.
The casino development, known as Metropolitan Park, is a joint venture between Cohen and Hard Rock International. If the legislation is approved, it would clear a key hurdle, allowing the project to formally apply for a downstate casino license from New York State regulators.
“Because the parking lot is legally parkland, they require state legislation that would allow a gaming facility to be built on that parkland in order to proceed with their application to the state gaming,” Senator Liu said in his remarks introducing the bill.
The proposal still faces several challenges. It must pass both houses of the New York State Legislature and be signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul. Complicating matters is potential opposition from State Senator Jessica Ramos, whose district includes much of the proposed development site.
Five other development groups are also in contention for a coveted downstate casino license. Additionally, two existing slots parlors are seeking to upgrade their facilities to include live table games.
Cohen’s Metropolitan Park proposal has been closely watched not only for its scale but also because of its potential to reshape the area around the ballpark, adding entertainment venues, hotels, and other attractions alongside the casino.
