New York: Times Square businesses unite to oppose Caesars Entertainment proposed casino development

Broadway businesses have united in opposing the proposed Times Square casino, with the No Times Square Casino Coalition leading the charge. The opposition comes in response to an announcement in 2022 that Caesars Entertainment and SL Green intended to construct a Caesars Palace at 1515 Broadway, Manhattan. The application is due to be reviewed by the New York State's Gaming Facility later this year.

While the Coalition for a Better Times Square, which supports the building of the casino, includes Actors' Equity and Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians, the No Times Square Casino Coalition argues that a casino would have significant negative impacts on the community. The coalition believes that the revitalization of Times Square over the past few decades has made it one of the most vibrant areas in the country, and a casino would detract from that.

The opposing coalition comprises residents, businesses, community organizations, and stakeholders from the Times Square community who are committed to its long-term future and concerned about the significant negative impacts a casino would bring.

Its mission statement emphasizes the importance of the Theater District, which is home to 41 theaters that bring the magic of Broadway to life and draw millions of people a year to New York City. The No Times Square Casino Coalition includes prominent organizations such as The Broadway League, The Hell's Kitchen Neighborhood Association, and The Manhattan Plaza Tenants Association, among others.

The American Federation of Musicians Local 802 President Tino Gagliardi has responded to the opposition, stating that a new gaming and entertainment destination would be a major benefit to Times Square and the Broadway community. However, the No Times Square Casino Coalition remains steadfast in its opposition, citing concerns about the negative impacts a casino would bring to the community, as reported by Broadway World.

As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the proposed Times Square casino will come to fruition. The opposition from Broadway businesses and community organizations highlights the importance of considering the potential impacts of such developments on the community and the city as a whole.