Las Vegas Sands scrambles to secure partner as Nassau casino deadline nears

Las Vegas Sands Corp. is still in talks to transfer its proposed casino-resort project at the Nassau Coliseum site to a third-party operator, with a critical deadline for state gaming license applications looming on June 27.

“These discussions are still ongoing and the company is hopeful that a deal can still be reached,” Daniel Baker, an attorney representing Sands, said Tuesday at a Town of Hempstead zoning board hearing. “However, the company also recognizes that there is little time left before applications are due to the state on June 27, and it may not be possible.”

The Nevada-based casino giant, which exited the bidding process for a New York State casino license last month, continues to pursue land-use changes for the 72-acre Coliseum site and adjacent Marriott Hotel property. The proposed rezoning would create the Mitchel Field Integrated Resort District, allowing for the construction of a 280-foot hotel, casino, restaurants, and entertainment facilities.

Despite pulling out of the license race, Sands maintains a 42-year operating lease at the site and is nearing completion of a county-led environmental review process. The company seeks to convert its stake into a 99-year development lease.

A Final Environmental Impact Statement for the $7.6 billion project was released last week, comprising over 28,000 pages of assessments on traffic, water usage, noise, and light pollution, among other concerns.

Sands has said rezoning remains key to attracting development, regardless of whether a casino ultimately materializes.

“Nassau County and Town of Hempstead residents have made clear they want and deserve a transformational project at the site of the Coliseum,” said Michael Levoff, senior vice president at Sands. “No matter if that development includes a casino or not, putting new zoning in place that moves the site closer to redevelopment is an essential step toward realizing a beneficial project.”

The plan has divided local stakeholders. Labor and business groups support the rezoning, citing job creation and long-term economic benefits. “We need to move this site forward,” said John Durso, president of the Long Island Federation of Labor. “We are talking about jobs — good union jobs — work, careers, workforce development.”

Opponents, including nearby residents and village officials, argue the project would harm community character and depress property values.

“We are not against unions, we are not against good jobs. We are against changing the character of our community,” said Garden City Mayor Ed Finneran. “If you're considering this zoning change, who is the sponsor? With the Sands abandoning this opportunity, why are we here today?”

Chris Boyle, spokesperson for Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, said in April the county would “crystallize within the next 30 days whether or not to entertain a casino component or develop the site without.”

Boyle had previously noted “strong interest” from other casino operators in taking over the Sands bid.

New York State is expected to issue up to three downstate casino licenses by the end of the year.