The first public hearing for Steve Cohen’s $8 billion Metropolitan Park casino proposal in Queens drew both loud support and sharp opposition, setting the stage for a heated licensing battle.
The first public hearing for Steve Cohen’s $8 billion Metropolitan Park casino proposal in Queens drew both loud support and sharp opposition, setting the stage for a heated licensing battle.
Held at Queens Borough Hall, the session resembled a sports rivalry more than a civic meeting, with attendees waving signs, chanting, and jeering. The second hearing is scheduled for 16 September, and the project’s Community Advisory Committee (CAC) must vote by 30 September, requiring two-thirds approval before advancing to state review.
If approved, Metropolitan Park would transform 50 acres around Citi Field into a sprawling mixed-use complex led by Cohen, owner of the New York Mets, in partnership with Hard Rock International.
Backing from Officials, But Local Resistance
Many city and state officials have endorsed the plan, citing economic opportunity. Former councilman Daniel Dromm called it a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Queens,” while Queens Chamber of Commerce CEO Tom Grech testified it would bring “generational growth.”
Supporters also pointed to the borough’s diversity, saying Metropolitan Park could uplift immigrant and working-class communities. Frankie Miranda of the Hispanic Federation argued the development was “essential to the future of these communities.”
But residents voiced concerns about displacement, billionaire influence, and overdevelopment. Annie Lowe of the Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund said no community benefits agreement could outweigh the “harm of luxury speculation” in Queens.
Addressing Concerns
Cohen’s team presented design updates in response to CAC questions, including improved pedestrian access, renderings for a “vendor plaza,” and a community trust fund to support additional projects.
Michael Sullivan, Cohen’s chief of staff, said:
“We believe this is the best site in New York City for a gaming license. It ties together world-class sports venues and creates something the city can be proud of.”
The project would sit near Citi Field, the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, and the future NYCFC stadium.
Competition and Uncertainty
Despite strong backing, Metropolitan Park faces political headwinds. State senator Jessica Ramos opposes the project, and rivals like Resorts World NYC—already considered a frontrunner—could complicate the licensing race.
Residents’ pushback also intensified throughout the meeting, with critics arguing Queens shouldn’t “have to beg billionaires” for parks and amenities.
As one opponent, Zeke Dunn, put it:
“We don’t need a casino to justify building a park.”
