Resorts World New York City (RWNYC) has taken a bold step toward redefining gaming and entertainment in Queens. On January 23, the casino operator hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its grand lobby to unveil its Experience Center, a pivotal showcase of its $5 billion redevelopment vision.
A Bold Vision Unveiled in Queens
The Experience Center is no ordinary pavilion. It’s a dynamic space designed to immerse visitors in RWNYC’s transformative plans for its casino operations, including its $5 billion bid for a gaming license submitted to the New York State Gaming Commission. The bid is set for review by June 27, marking a significant milestone in the state’s competitive casino expansion process.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato, and Council Member Nantasha Williams were among the many local officials and community stakeholders attending the event. Their presence signified broad support for the project and its potential impact on the borough.
What’s Inside the Experience Center?
Inside the Experience Center, visitors will find an intricate, immersive model of the redevelopment plans. The space doesn’t just highlight proposed architectural changes—it showcases how RWNYC plans to blend state-of-the-art gaming facilities with broader entertainment offerings.
- Interactive Displays: High-tech installations allow attendees to explore the $5 billion redevelopment in detail.
- Community-Centered Approach: The plans emphasize job creation, local partnerships, and expanded public amenities.
- A Glimpse Into the Future: The centerpiece of the Experience Center is a detailed miniature model of the revamped casino, which combines gaming, hospitality, and leisure spaces.
By focusing on community benefits, RWNYC is positioning itself as more than just a gaming destination. The project aims to drive economic growth and offer entertainment that resonates with the local community.
Community and Officials Rally Behind the Plan
For many attendees, the Experience Center was more than a presentation. It symbolized the potential to bring long-term benefits to Queens. Borough President Donovan Richards lauded the redevelopment’s potential, calling it “a transformative moment for the borough.”
Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between RWNYC and the community. “This is a chance to not just enhance our borough but also create thousands of jobs,” she said.
Beyond economic gains, the redevelopment also promises to boost Queens’ profile as a destination for leisure and tourism.
Key Milestones Ahead
RWNYC’s $5 billion bid represents one of several vying for the state’s highly coveted casino gaming licenses. These licenses are part of a broader initiative to expand gaming opportunities downstate. The deadline for submissions is June 27, 2025, and the competition is fierce.
In the meantime, the Experience Center serves a dual purpose: engaging stakeholders and winning community trust. As RWNYC awaits the commission’s decision, the center will be an ongoing hub for public engagement, where residents can learn more about the redevelopment plans and provide feedback.
Transforming Queens, One Step at a Time
This ambitious redevelopment plan isn’t just about reshaping the casino—it’s about reimagining the borough’s future. With its unveiling of the Experience Center, Resorts World NYC has set the stage for what could be one of the most significant entertainment transformations in New York.
The stakes are high, and the path ahead is uncertain, but RWNYC is making its case clear: Queens is ready for the future.