Broadway Braces for Battle as Coalition Rallies Against Times Square Casino
A broad coalition of new York City’s theater community and local stakeholders will gather today,June 25,to protest the proposed development of a casino in Times Square.The opposition comes as SL Green, a major real estate developer, prepares to submit its official request for a gaming license this week.
A United Front forms
The “NO TIMES SQUARE CASINO” coalition represents a diverse range of interests, including residents, businesses, and community organizations deeply invested in the long-term vitality of the iconic Times Square district. Members express important concerns about the potential negative impacts a casino could have on the area’s character and economy.
Opponents cite increased traffic, noise, and potential strain on local resources as key concerns. They also worry about the impact on the family-amiable atmosphere of Times Square.
The coalition boasts an impressive list of supporters, including prominent venues like 54 Below and Sardi’s, influential unions such as IATSE Local One, and vital community groups like the Hell’s kitchen Neighborhood Association. Othre key members include The Broadway League and TDF, demonstrating the depth of opposition within the performing arts world. A complete list of participating organizations is available below:
- 54 Below
- American Bus Association
- ATPAM
- Audience Rewards
- Bar Centrale
- Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS
- CHEKPEDS
- council of Chelsea Block Associations
- Encore Community Services
- Hell’s Kitchen Block Alliance
- Hell’s Kitchen Neighborhood Association
- IATSE Local One
- IATSE Local 306
- IATSE Local 751
- IATSE Local 764
- IATSE Local 798
- Joe Allen
- Manhattan Plaza Tenants Association
- National Organization for Women NYC (NOW-NYC)
- Orso
- Project FIND
- Sardi’s
- TDF
- Times Square Church
- The Ali Forney Center
- The Broadway League
- The Hippodrome
- The Shubert Organization
- The Voice of Student Youth & Travel
- The West 47th/48th Street Block Association
- United Federation of Teachers (UFT)
- United Scenic Artists 829
- Westside Neighborhood Alliance
SL Green: The real estate developer seeking to build the casino.
NO TIMES SQUARE CASINO: The coalition opposing the development.
New York State Gaming Commission: The entity responsible for awarding the gaming licenses.
State Approval and Licensing Timeline
The current pushback arrives after New York State lawmakers authorized the creation of three downstate casinos in 2023. The state is anticipated to award these licenses by the end of 2025, setting the stage for a perhaps transformative shift in the landscape of New York gaming and entertainment.
Rally Details
Those wishing to demonstrate their opposition are encouraged to attend a rally today at the red steps in Father Duffy Square (7th Avenue between West 46th and 47th Streets) at 5:00 PM.
Location: Red steps in Father Duffy Square (7th Avenue between West 46th and 47th Streets)
Time: 5:00 PM Today, June 25
Broadway Welcomes “Real Women Have Curves”
In a separate development, Broadway is preparing to welcome a new production this April: “Real women Have Curves.” The play, set in 1987 East Los Angeles, tells the story of Ana Garcia and her family as they navigate ambition, expectation, and community while fulfilling a crucial dress order. This new show offers a vibrant contrast to the debate surrounding the potential casino,highlighting the enduring power and appeal of live theatre in New York City.
Beyond the Headlines: Examining the Economic Stakes
The debate surrounding the proposed Times Square casino extends far beyond concerns about the area’s atmosphere and character, as voiced by the “NO TIMES SQUARE CASINO” coalition [[1]]. Analyzing the economic implications is crucial. What will the presence of a casino truly mean for the local economy, both in the short and long term?
The proposed casino development has become a hot topic, with many residents and businesses worried about potential negative impacts on the area’s economy.
Economic Factors at Play:
Job Creation: The casino could create thousands of new jobs.
tax Revenue: Gambling is a strong source of tax revenue for the state.
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