Sharpton brought on for last presentation
Representatives from all three partners were in the room again on Thursday for another presentation, although it was not required. The focal points were reiterated: minimal construction impact; overflow benefits for local businesses; and partnerships with various theatre and community groups.
“Our project has the least possible impact on the surrounding community,” stressed SL Green CEO Marc Holliday. “We will not disrupt the streetscape because the building already exists. We will not displace critical housing opportunities, as 1515 Broadway is an office building.”
Two-time police commissioner Bill Bratton, the project’s security chief, has emphasised public safety that would be provided for the surrounding areas. He outlined a security plan that includes continuous surveillance and patrols. This, he said, would make Times Square “safer everywhere for everyone”.
Rather than using Roc Nation founder Jay-Z, SL Green and Caesars tapped longtime civil rights leader Reverend Al Sharpton to make the final pitch on Thursday.
“If this casino is established, it will be the first time we will have an institution on Broadway that has diversity on an ownership level,” Sharpton said. “And you’re not just given a token – Jay-Z is nobody’s token, he’s the token booth.”
Red versus purple for Caesars Times Square
Much of the public comment portion of the hearing was dominated by two colours: red for the anti-casino crowd, and purple for the supporters. A large portion of those donning red “No Times Square casino” shirts and signs were affiliated with Broadway.
“A casino threatens to overwhelm this unique neighbourhood character,” testified Patricia White, president of the Theatrical Wardrobe Union Local 764. “There are plenty of empty lots in the city. There’ll be jobs there. Go there.”
While Times Square is not primarily a residential area, locals from surrounding neighbourhoods have pushed back against the traffic, congestion and crime that a casino could bring to such a busy location. Stakeholders have pledged that local theatres and businesses would profit from this added traffic.
Caesars Times Square does not have the requisite amenities for its projections, with the idea being that overflow into surrounding areas would happen naturally. To help strengthen this promise, Caesars has pledged to extend its rewards programme for use at partnering businesses nearby. Still, many were not convinced.
“If you’ve ever been in a Caesars casino, I could sit in there in my pajamas and gamble, they don’t care,” argued resident Guy Kroll. “If I have a dollar in my pocket, they want it in theirs. They prey upon the people who don’t have money.”
Dissent not unanimous
While Broadway and its army of red was convincing, the minority holding purple “Yes Caesars Times Square” regalia held its own. Theatre unions came out strong, but other labour leaders made an opposite case.
“Every other proposed site would take away from a possible site for affordable housing,” testified Una Adams, director of organising for Laborers Local 79. “Our members need affordable housing and I am hoping that my child can grow up living in New York City living in affordable housing, which can be built on one of those other sites.”
The Caesars CAC is now tasked with considering multiple factors related to a project that could have the most impact in terms of location. For example, there would be no housing displaced, but none built. The other two Manhattan bids (Freedom Plaza and Avenir) both have housing components.
Union jobs would be created, but the project’s pledged total of 3,000 construction jobs is the lowest of any bid. But in terms of casino operations, Caesars is near the top as far as experience, alongside MGM, Hard Rock and Genting.
“I don’t think it’s just about gambling, I think it’s more about steady paycheques, more opportunities and giving local businesses a boost,” said a resident named Rita.
Dingnews.com 17/09/2025