In an effort to bolster its plans for casino expansion in South Ozone Park, Resorts World New York City recently opened the Experience Center, which officials called “an innovative pavilion designed to showcase its transformative $5 billion redevelopment vision,” in Resorts World New York City’s Grand Lobby.
Resorts World said the center “invites local residents, stakeholders and guests to immerse themselves in the once-in-a-generation proposal built upon more than 13 years of community collaboration that promises to redefine the future of Queens.”
The boasts 3D models and video walls. RWNYC officials said the redevelopment of the property “will create 350,000 square feet of meeting, conference, and entertainment space; one of the largest gaming floors in the world; and approximately 30 new food and beverage options, all while generating more than 10,000 new jobs and spurring economic development around the Aqueduct site. The campus will also quadruple its hotel capacity for a total 2,000 rooms just minutes away from JFK International Airport.”
The project also launches vision for ‘Aqueduct Park’ – a community proposal to spur an additional $5 billion investment into housing, parklands, improved public transportation and community initiatives.
“This will not only transform the entertainment landscape in New York City but benefit all Empire State residents through massive job creation, the development of a world-class entertainment resort and the delivery of billions in tax revenue. Construction jobs [may] come on as early as this year, creating a new economic activity and opportunity in Southeast Queens,” according to RWNYC.
Resorts World said the foundation of redevelopment is its “13-year record of success.”
According to officials:
Resorts World New York City has for years been the State’s largest taxpayer; Resorts World New York City has invested more than $1.1 billion into Southeast Queens; Resorts World has generated more than $4.5 billion for the State’s public education fund; more than 1,000 people currently work at Resorts Work New York City, with more than half living within Queens; the workforce is more than 80 percent people of color and 49 percent female; Resorts World New York City welcomes an average of more than 5 million guests every year; Resorts World Gives has supported more than 300 local organizations and given more than $5 million in donations to groups including Boys and Girls Club of Metro Queens, Queens Library, and Jamaica Hospital Medical Center.
The project has garnered plenty of borough support.
“Resorts World New York City came into our community more than a dozen years ago, and every day since has been a dedicated neighbor who shows up, hears our feedback, and responds to our needs,” said Betty Braton, chairwoman of Community Board 10.
“This Experience Center at Resorts World will provide local residents an opportunity to see what’s coming to our community,” said City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park). “RWNYC’s vision is about creating real benefits for the community – from workforce housing to cutting edge spaces for families and people of all ages to come together to enjoy. I’m excited to see this project come to life in the new space.”
