Bally’s Casino at Ferry Point is one step closer to becoming a reality.
In a pivotal move, the New York City Council passed a “home rule” resolution essential for Bally's to proceed with its plans. This resolution enables state lawmakers to vote on a park alienation bill—a legal necessity when public parkland is being repurposed for private development. In other words, it allows roughly 16 acres of public parkland to be used for Bally's large development project.
A home rule message needs 34 council votes to pass without the mayor's support. However, if the mayor endorses it, only a simple majority of 26 votes is required for approval. Adams issued a formal message of support to the council, and the measure passed 32-12, with seven abstaining.
The passage of this bill is crucial as Bally’s competes for one of the few coveted downstate gaming licenses.
Bally’s Casino Proposal at Ferry Point
Bally’s grand plan would transform Ferry Point Park in the Bronx, bringing a $4 billion hotel-casino complex to the area. It's the largest private development proposal in Bronx history.
If approved, Bally’s proposal includes:
- 500,000-square-foot gaming hall
- 500-room hotel
- Retail stores
- 2,000-seat event center
- Parking facilities
The development would span over 16 acres within the current Bally’s Links golf course, affecting the parking lot, practice areas, and clubhouse. To mitigate these changes, Bally’s has committed to replacing any lost parkland and enhancing the green space across the larger park.
Councilwoman Opposes the Bally's Casino Plan
The decision to move forward with the project has not been without controversy.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been influential in persuading the City Council to pass the home rule resolution, even though the support from local council members was mixed. Council Member Kristy Marmorato, representing the area where the casino would be built, was a vocal opponent, expressing concerns about political motives overshadowing community needs.
Marmorato accused certain factions of ignoring the desires of the local community and prioritizing political favors over genuine consideration for the neighborhood. Mayor Adams' eleventh-hour support for Bally’s might have been an attempt to win favor with President Donald Trump, as his organization could earn up to $115 million if the casino obtains one of the state's three available licenses.
Despite resistance from Community Board 10—which voted against the proposal—the project continues to advance through the required procedural steps, including a city-level rezoning review known as the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP).
History of the Golf Course at Ferry Point
Before Bally’s came into the picture, the golf course at Ferry Point already had an intriguing backstory.
Developed as a public course, it became notable for its ties to high-profile figures. Most recently, it operated under Bally's name after previously being associated with former President Donald J. Trump until 2023.
The course, designed by renowned golfer and architect Jack Nicklaus, opened in 2015 and quickly became a popular spot for golf enthusiasts.
Set against the backdrop of Manhattan’s skyline, the golf course at Ferry Point has been a key feature of the park, attracting visitors from across the city and beyond. Its development was part of an initiative to transform the underutilized land into a vibrant recreational zone. Now, with Bally’s new vision, the course could once again see a significant transformation as part of the proposed casino complex.
Bally's Casino in the Bronx Far From Final
Bally's has a long road ahead before the casino becomes a reality.
The proposal still needs various approvals and community consultations. The ongoing ULURP process will include public input and further scrutiny from the City Council. Additionally, Bally’s must secure one of the three gaming licenses available for downstate New York.
The proposals include Freedom Plaza, a project by the Soloviev Group and Mohegan, which seeks to meet Manhattan's urgent needs by providing community spaces, job opportunities, and affordable housing. Mets owner Steve Cohen’s proposed casino would be built next to Citi Field. His entertainment complex would be called "Metropolitan Park."
A separate alienation bill tied to this project has already passed the state legislature and is awaiting Gov. Kathy Hochul’s signature.
MGM Resorts and Resorts World are also considered leading contenders for one of the available licenses, as they already operate slot-only gaming facilities without live table games. There's also a plan to put a casino on Manhattan's far west side.
Despite the hurdles, Bally's promises significant community benefits, including a $625 million package to support local projects and enhance public amenities. The project holds potential for economic benefits like job creation and increased tourism, but it remains a divisive issue among residents and local representatives.
By keeping an eye on upcoming decisions and community reactions, it will be intriguing to see how Bally's vision for Ferry Point unfolds, potentially marking a new era for this historic New York City landmark.
