Plans to build a casino in Times Square have officially collapsed following a vote by the Community Advisory Committee, whose approval was required for the project to progress in New York State’s casino licensing process.
The committee voted 4–2 against the proposal, effectively ending the bid backed by SL Green Realty Corporation, Caesars Entertainment, Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, and Live Nation.
The $5.4 billion plan targeted 1515 Broadway, where a redeveloped office tower would have become a Caesars Palace–branded hotel and casino complex, alongside The Minskoff Theatre—home to The Lion King—and Viacom’s offices.
The project sparked months of heated debate within the Broadway community. Theatre marquees and signage recently reflected the divide, with some backing the initiative and others firmly opposed. Major opponents included The Broadway League, the Shubert Organization, and IATSE, who argued a casino would harm the theatre district and disrupt the surrounding neighborhood. Their stance was supported by more than 35 organizations, such as the United Federation of Teachers, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, the Ali Forney Center, and local advocacy groups like the Hell’s Kitchen Neighborhood Association and the Westside Neighborhood Alliance.
SL Green CEO Marc Holliday criticized the rejection as a “failure of leadership” and a missed chance for economic growth. Supporters—including Actors’ Equity and musicians’ union Local 802—had argued the development would create jobs and enhance safety in the area.
With the committee’s decision, the Times Square casino proposal joins a growing list of unsuccessful attempts to bring gambling to Manhattan. If approved, it would have advanced to the state’s Gaming Facilities Location Board, which is set to award up to three casino licenses by year’s end.
