realestate

Times Square Casino Hopes Live On, Real Estate CEO Says

SL Green CEO confirms Times Square casino plan still on table in Q3 earnings call.

S
L Green’s chief executive, Marc Holliday, told investors on the company’s third‑quarter earnings call that the $5.4 billion Times Square casino proposal remains viable, even after the advisory committee’s September rejection. The plan, a joint effort with Caesars Entertainment, Roc Nation and Live Nation, was one of three Manhattan projects turned down, along with proposals from Silverstein Properties and Stefan Soloviev. Holliday said the outcome of the licensing process is still uncertain, noting that the number of bidders and the allocation of licenses could change, potentially opening new opportunities for Manhattan casinos.

    He highlighted that the Times Square building’s flexibility—its ability to host entertainment or hotel operations—and its low debt load give SL Green multiple options. The company also pointed to the stability of its largest tenant, Paramount Global, which was recently acquired by Skydance Media for $8.4 billion, as a factor that strengthens its position.

    In the broader New York casino landscape, MGM Resorts abruptly withdrew its bid for a full casino license in Yonkers, a move that stunned local officials. MGM Empire City had been seen as a front‑runner for one of the state’s three down‑state gaming licenses, which could have added $2.3 billion to its slots‑only operation. Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano called the withdrawal a betrayal and demanded an investigation, while Governor Kathy Hochul said she found no evidence of wrongdoing. MGM’s exit may benefit rivals such as Bally’s Corporation, which has pledged over $100 million to the Trump Organization if its Bronx proposal wins, and the Trump Organization has dismissed the mayor’s allegations as false.

    With MGM out, only three active bids remain: Bally’s in the Bronx, Metropolitan Park near Citi Field, and Resorts World NYC in Queens. The shifting dynamics underscore the uncertainty of the New York casino race and the potential for new entrants to emerge as the licensing process unfolds.

Times Square casino hopes continue, real estate CEO says.