MGM Resorts International has just revealed its grand vision for transforming Empire City Casino by MGM Resorts in Yonkers, New York, into a new world-class entertainment destination.
Pending the approval of a commercial casino license for its existing site, which has been operating under a lottery license since October 2006, and currently features video lottery terminals and electronic table games. The metamorphosed property would be rebranded simply as MGM Empire City.
The ambitious phase-one design encompasses a comprehensive casino floor expansion and redesign, a new 5,000-capacity entertainment venue, a state-of-the-art BetMGM sportsbook, and a lineup of new dining venues headed by renowned chefs, cocktail bars and lounges, high-tech meeting spaces and more.
Plans call for a comprehensive property redevelopment, transitioning from a video lottery terminal racino to a full-scale commercial casino, featuring live-dealer table games, the latest slot machines and an exclusive high-limit gaming area for the most serious players.
Rendering of the new entertainment venue planned for MGM Empire City in Yonkers, New York. (Photo Credit: MGM Resorts International)
Notable additions to the dining landscape would include a modern steakhouse, a quick-serve Italian-American concept, and an authentic Asian noodle bar and eatery. These would join the existing Big Kitchen food court and The Pub sports bar, which would also be reimagined as new, high-end food concepts.
If approved, the historic property’s planned entertainment venue will be the first of its kind to open in the region, boasting a 5,000-capacity theater with spectacular view, cutting-edge acoustics and special amenities, designed to host big-ticket, A-list performers and events. This state-of-the-art entertainment complex is set to boost the region's economy, attracting high-profile events, and drawing crowds of locals and tourists alike.
With first-rate venues all around the world, MGM Resorts is already a recognized leader in terms of its entertainment offerings and is the third-largest ticket seller for live performances in the United States.
A full commercial gaming license will also enable MGM Empire City to install The BetMGM Sportsbook & Lounge, offering immersive game-day experiences with its 112-foot wrap-around LED screen, stadium seating, VIP areas, betting kiosks, and food and beverage options.
Rendering of the central casino bar planned for MGM Empire City, Yonkers, New York. (Photo Credit: MGM Resorts International)
Measuring 160,000 square feet, Empire City’s casino floor is not only the biggest in MGM Resorts’ U.S. portfolio, but also one of the largest gaming floors in the entire country. The existing site also includes the historic Yonkers Raceway, a world-renowned horse harness-racing track, which has been in operation since 1899. MGM Resorts is committed to continuing its racing operations there, as evidenced by the significant investments it has put into track renovations.
If MGM Resorts can secure one of three available full commercial casino licenses that are currently up for bid in New York State, the development plan will proceed and is poised to generate over $1 billion in new economic activity for the region.
Already Yonkers’ single largest tax contributor and one of the city’s major private employers, the revamped MGM Empire City’s development plans would significantly bolster the local workforce, being expected to generate more than 10,000 indirect and induced jobs.
The application process and timeline for obtaining a commercial casino license for the prospective MGM Empire City complex will be determined by the state's Gaming Facility Location Board in the upcoming months.
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