uniondale, new york — The Las Vegas-based casino and resort giant is bringing gambling and a multi-billion dollar entertainment complex to the greenfield surrounding the Nassau Coliseum.
There were other doomed ventures on the site, but some are giving good odds to this one.
Las Vegas Sands, one of the biggest names in the gaming industry, has big plans to transform the 72 acres around the Coliseum into its Nassau hub.
“We have access to hotel rooms, tourist attractions and anything that the community can participate in, whether it’s a restaurant or not,” said Ron Reese, senior vice president of Sands.
The company signed an agreement with the site’s developer to lease county-owned land and applied for one of New York’s three downstate gaming licenses to build a casino and hospitality destination.
Former Governor David Patterson is on the team pitching the proposal.
“It will increase tax revenue and quality of life, and of course, exponentially expand entertainment options,” said Paterson, now senior vice president of Sands.
After years of doomed proposals where the lighthouse project was deemed too big, the $4 billion investment will be privately funded, giving the proposal a better chance of gaining approval.
Uniondale businessman Sam Dickerson said, “Bigger is better, busier is better. It means more revenue, more money, more opportunities, more growth.” means.”
Opponents have already said that wedging between universities is inappropriate.
Nostrand Gardens Civic Association Chairman Pearl Jacobs said, “In the long run, casinos are really not good for our community.
“Obviously, eventually we will have lower taxes for the people who live here, creating not only jobs but also careers,” Patterson said.
The company has not decided whether the project will proceed without a casino license, but has pledged to work with the community. I’m here.
Nassau County executive Bruce Blakeman said he’s open-minded about exciting and interesting proposals, but community buy-in is essential.
“More than just a casino, it had to be first class, exciting and primarily an entertainment center and hospitality play,” said Blakeman. “It was architecturally pleasing, hopefully spectacular, and had open spaces.”
One thing is certain, Blakeman said. The precious land in the heart of Nassau County is not left empty.
Carolyn Gussoff
