Full Breakdown
Coney Island Casino Proposal Rejected by Community Advisory Committee
10/2/2025, 2:37:37 PM
Community Advisory Committee Vote
On September 29, 2025, the Coney Island Community Advisory Committee officially rejected the proposed casino project known as The Coney, with a vote of 4-2 against advancing the $3.4 billion gaming complex. The decision concluded a month of intense debate surrounding the project, which was spearheaded by Thor Equities. The proposed development included a 1.4 million-square-foot complex featuring a casino, a 500-room hotel, a convention center, and various retail and dining options. Proponents argued that the project would create approximately 4,500 permanent jobs and generate significant economic benefits for the area, which has a 17% unemployment rate.
Local Opposition and Concerns
Despite the projected economic benefits, local residents expressed significant opposition to the casino. The Community Advisory Committee received 921 written comments against the project compared to only 17 in favor. Critics, including Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and state Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, voiced concerns that the casino would not serve as a public good and would instead exacerbate issues such as increased rent, traffic congestion, and the potential closure of local businesses. Marissa Solomon, a committee member, emphasized the importance of preserving Coney Island as "The People’s Playground," stating, “I hope that we continue to recognize what a unique and valuable place that Coney Island is.”
Last-Minute Amendments and Reactions
In the lead-up to the vote, developers attempted to address community concerns by proposing last-minute amendments, including increased job opportunities for locals and additional funding for emergency services. However, these efforts were deemed insufficient by committee members. Reynoso remarked that the late-stage proposals could have been more effective if presented earlier in the process. Joe Packer, a supporter of The Coney, lamented the rejection as a "missed opportunity," suggesting that better communication with residents could have swayed public opinion.
Broader Implications and Next Steps
The rejection of The Coney marks a significant moment in the ongoing competition for downstate casino licenses, as it mirrors similar outcomes for three other casino proposals in Manhattan. The focus now shifts to other projects, including Bally's proposal in the Bronx, which has advanced to the next stage of consideration. The state Gaming Facility Location Board is expected to make final licensing decisions by December 2025.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Coney Island really makes up part of the soul of New York and especially for the working people of this city, it’s an irreplaceable treasure,” — Marissa Solomon, CAC Member
- “This last minute effort and an inability to truly change minds in this community have made it so that I’m voting nay,” — Antonio Reynoso, Brooklyn Borough President
- “It took a group of dedicated grassroots activists to take down a multimillion-dollar effort,” — Adam Rinn, Artistic Director, Coney Island USA
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the developers projected that The Coney would generate $1.8 billion in annual gross gaming revenue, local sentiments reflected skepticism about the project's promises. The community advisory committee's rejection highlights a disconnect between developer claims and local concerns, emphasizing the need for genuine community engagement in future proposals.
