A coalition of Broadway industry stakeholders are voicing strong opposition to the proposed Caesars Palace Times Square casino development in the heart of the Theatre District.
On August 13, sixteen Broadway theatres simultaneously lit their marquees with bold red letters reading “No Times Square Casino,” as part of a coordinated protest campaign. The marquee also directed viewers to NoTimesSquareCasino.com for further information.
Protest & Public Hearing
The protest coincided with a public hearing held at Scandinavia House (58 Park Avenue) at 9:00 AM, where dozens of residents, Broadway union members, and representatives from the No Times Square Casino Coalition gathered to rally against the development. The coalition now includes 35 organizations such as the Broadway League, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, the Entertainment Community Fund, the Theatre Development Fund, IATSE, United Scenic Artists Local 829, The Shubert Organization, and more.
Opponents argue that introducing a casino into an already congested 10-block radius would wreak havoc on pedestrian and vehicular traffic, strain public infrastructure, and potentially increase crime in the area. Additionally, critics warn that the project could destabilize the city’s tax base and alter the cultural fabric of the Theatre District.
Caesars Palace Times Square Casino
The proposed Caesars Palace Times Square is a joint venture between SL Green Realty, Caesars Entertainment, Roc Nation, and Live Nation. The plan involves transforming the 54-story office tower at 1515 Broadway, home to the Minskoff Theatre, into a multi-use complex featuring a casino, hotel, and Broadway theatre. SL Green has formally applied to the New York State Gaming Commission, which is evaluating bids for three new downstate gaming licenses. Eight proposals are currently under review, with a decision anticipated by the end of 2025.
Signs Of Support
While many organizations have voiced opposition, Actors’ Equity Association and American Federation of Musicians Local 802 have expressed support, citing potential economic benefits. Tony-winning producer Wendell Pierce has also endorsed the project, following Caesars’ commitment to invest $10 million in a New York Coalition of Legacy Theatres of Color Fund.
Can NY Casinos Operate Online?
As of mid-2025, real-money online casino gambling is only offered online from out-of-state sites. While land-based casinos operate legally across the state, the New York State Gaming Commission has not authorized internet-based casino games such as slots, blackjack, or roulette.
There have been repeated attempts to legalize online casinos in New York. The most recent is Senate Bill S2614, introduced in early 2025, which would allow online interactive gaming and lottery ticket sales. However, the bill has not yet passed, and full legalization may not occur until 2026 or later.
Currently, there are only seven US states that offer legitimate online casinos: Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.