New York City Proposal: Wyndham CEO along with nearby venues endorse Times Square casino idea, addressing potential issues such as traffic and noise concerns
The New York State Gaming Commission is currently reviewing the proposal for a Caesars Palace Times Square casino expansion, with a virtual scoping session held on Wednesday evening. The session followed criticism over insufficient public notice for an earlier gathering. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, with properties in the Times Square area, expressed its support for the project, describing it as the optimal choice for the neighborhood's transformation.
The Scoping Session and Public Feedback
The New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) is assessing various downstate casino proposals, with up to three licenses anticipated to be granted by the end of 2025. The Caesars Palace Times Square project is among three significant Manhattan proposals competing for a license, alongside The Avenir by Silverstein Properties and a Soloviev/Mohegan casino on a former Con Ed power plant site.
Due to concerns about short notice for initial hearings, the NYSGC has organized additional public comment sessions and extended deadlines for community feedback. The public scoping session for the Caesars Palace Times Square proposal was held on May 28, 2025, with written comments accepted until June 11, 2025.
Support from Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, which operates numerous properties in the surrounding area, has given its endorsement to the Caesars Palace Times Square casino proposal. Wyndham CEO Geoff Ballotti praised the project as the best fit for the neighborhood, highlighting its ability to blend seamlessly into the area’s character and contribute to much-needed upgrades.
The Business Partnership
Wyndham and Caesars have a points-sharing agreement in place, strengthening their strategic alignment with the project's goals.
Moving Forward
The Caesars Palace Times Square project continues to gain momentum and public endorsements while contending with regulatory scrutiny, community feedback opportunities, and stiff competition for a highly coveted New York City casino license.
The New York State Gaming Commission is considering various casino proposals, including the Caesars Palace Times Square expansion, as part of their plan to issue up to three licenses by the end of 2025. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, with properties in the Times Square area, supports the Caesars Palace project, viewing it as an optimal choice for the neighborhood's transformation and a suitable fit for its casino-and-gambling culture in Las Vegas-style casino-games.