MGM Resorts unveils plans to redevelop Empire City Casino

MGM Resorts has unveiled its vision to transition Empire City Casino in New York into a full-scale casino resort if awarded a commercial casino license for its Yonkers site.

Phase one of the proposed MGM Empire City venue will include a comprehensive casino floor redevelopment and expansion, 5,000-capacity entertainment venue and BetMGM sportsbook.

The plans feature a complete property redevelopment shifting from a video lottery terminal racino into a full-scale commercial casino with live dealer table games, the newest slot machines and a high-limit gaming area for casino guests.

A commercial casino license will also enable MGM Empire City to introduce The BetMGM Sportsbook & Lounge, offering guests game day experiences with a 112-foot wrap-around LED screen, stadium seating, VIP areas, multiple betting kiosks, and food and beverage operations.

The development plan will move forward if MGM Resorts is successful in securing one of three available full commercial casino licenses currently up for bid in New York State.

“MGM Resorts has a long and proud history of delivering world-class entertainment and gaming experiences, and we couldn't be more excited to build on that track record at MGM Empire City,” said MGM Resorts president and CEO Bill Hornbuckle. “A full-scale casino and entertainment destination will provide unparalleled experiences, create thousands of jobs, boost the state's economy, and be a game-changer for the entire region.”

Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano commented: “This is a momentous opportunity for the City of Yonkers, and I'm excited for the future, knowing the development of MGM Empire City will create thousands of good-paying union jobs and the economic growth that will ensure our city continues to flourish and prosper.

“Already drawing millions of guests annually, this development plan will solidify Empire City's status as a premier entertainment destination. Generations of Yonkers residents have worked at, enjoyed, and supported this historic property for 125 years, and I am excited about the significant impacts this project will have for residents now and for the next 125 years.”

Acquired by MGM Resorts in January 2019, Empire City currently boasts the largest casino floor in MGM’s domestic portfolio at 160,000 square feet, and has been operating since October 2006 with video lottery terminals and electronic table games under its current lottery license.

The site is also home to the historic Yonkers Raceway, a horse racing harness track that has been operating since 1899.

“When MGM Resorts acquired Empire City Casino in 2019, we knew we were becoming stewards of a historic institution that has served generations of New Yorkers as a gathering place for entertainment, a source of jobs for the community, and a driver of economic development,” said Empire City Casino general manager Ed Domingo.

“As MGM Resorts prepares to enter its sixth year at the helm of this iconic property, we are excited to be able to combine the knowledge we have developed of the New York market with our expertise as a global entertainment brand, to bring the next chapter of New York's entertainment landscape to the incredible community we are part of.”

Shares in MGM Resorts International (NYSE:MGM) closed marginally higher at $39.44 per share in New York Thursday.