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Bronx Casino Proposal Faces Hurdles Despite Mayor’s Veto

Originally posted on Action Network | By Dave Grendzynski | Last updated Aug 6, 2025 1:23 PM ET

The future of Bally’s proposed casino in Ferry Point Park, Bronx, remains uncertain after New York City Council Democrats chose not to challenge Mayor Eric Adams’ recent veto.

This decision came after a closed-door meeting where logistical challenges and a lack of political support were discussed. The council acknowledged they don’t have enough votes to override the veto before the looming deadline.

The veto effectively overturned the Council’s earlier decision to deny Bally’s a land use permit. Without this permit, Bally’s would be disqualified from competing for a state gaming license.

Some Council members, particularly from the Bronx delegation, support moving forward with the proposal, arguing the borough deserves a shot at the economic opportunities a casino might bring. However, local opposition exists, notably from Republican Council Member Kristy Marmorato, who represents the district where the casino is proposed to be built.

Bally’s Casino hopes to secure one of three downstate casino licenses to build a casino at Ferry Point Park in the Bronx. It’s the latest in a series of setbacks the project has experienced in recent months.

Mayor Stands By Bronx Casino Decision

Bally’s Casino project would be located adjacent to its golf course at Ferry Point, formerly operated by President Trump’s firm. (Photo courtesy: Bally’s Corporation)

Mayor Adams defended his decision to issue the veto, stating he wants to ensure Bally’s has a fair shot among other contenders. His move has attracted criticism due to potential conflicts of interest involving his political advisers, who are linked to Bally’s and the Trump Organization. These entities could financially benefit if the casino comes to fruition.

Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and her team expressed dissatisfaction with the mayor’s intervention but opted not to push for an override vote. Political intricacies and the absence of some members during the summer contributed to this decision.

While the Council’s lack of action on the veto removes a significant local barrier, the proposal still faces further scrutiny. Bally’s must receive approval from a local board and the state Gaming Facility Location Board to secure one of the three available gaming licenses in the region. As the process unfolds, the Bronx community and its leaders continue to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of hosting a casino.

Bally’s Has Big Plans in the Bronx

Bally’s wants to build a 500,000-square-foot casino at the Bronx site, which would be located next to the Bally’s-operated golf course at Ferry Point.

Bally’s is eyeing a major development near their golf course at Ferry Point, once overseen by President Trump’s company.

The ambitious project envisions a sprawling 500,000-square-foot casino complex. This isn’t just about gaming; the plans include a luxurious 500-room hotel, a relaxing spa, versatile meeting spaces, various retail shops, and a grand event center with 2,000 seats. To accommodate visitors, there will also be two spacious parking garages with room for 4,660 vehicles.

What’s particularly intriguing for Bronx residents is the opportunity to own a piece of the action. If Bally’s gets the necessary license and project approvals, locals could have the chance to own up to 10% of the casino shares. This offers a potential stake in what could be a transformative development for the area.

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