Ceasars Times Square Project Continues to Face Heavy Debates

After years of planning, public hearings, and sustained pushback from the Broadway community, the future of Caesars Times Square will be decided this week. On Wednesday morning, the casino proposal faces a pivotal vote by its Community Advisory Committee (CAC), a step that will determine whether it advances to the state level for one of three coveted downstate casino licenses.

A High-Profile Bid in the Heart of New York

The $5.4 billion project, spearheaded by SL Green, Caesars Entertainment, and Roc Nation, would retrofit 1515 Broadway — an existing office tower in Times Square. Supporters argue this makes the proposal less disruptive than greenfield developments, avoiding displacement of residents and minimizing construction impact.

Backers also point to the site’s global visibility and heavy tourist traffic. “Our project has the least possible impact on the surrounding community,” said SL Green CEO Marc Holliday at last week’s public hearing. “We will not disrupt the streetscape … We will not displace critical housing opportunities.” The proposal includes a comprehensive security plan led by former New York Police Commissioner Bill Bratton, who pledged continuous patrols and surveillance to make the area “safer everywhere for everyone.”

Broadway Pushes Back

The project’s location, however, is also its greatest liability. Times Square is home to the Broadway theatre industry, which has emerged as the proposal’s most vocal opponent. At the final public hearing, held Thursday at the Broadhurst Theatre, more than 175 speakers delivered testimony over six hours. Many wore red “No Times Square Casino” shirts, warning that a gaming hub would alter the character of the neighborhood.

“A casino threatens to overwhelm this unique neighbourhood character,” said Patricia White, president of the Theatrical Wardrobe Union Local 764. “There are plenty of empty lots in the city. There’ll be jobs there. Go there.”

Concerns also extended beyond Broadway. Residents from nearby neighborhoods cited fears of increased congestion, crime, and predatory practices toward vulnerable populations. “If I have a dollar in my pocket, they want it in theirs,” said local resident Guy Kroll. “They prey upon the people who don’t have money.” Supporters of the plan, who wore purple to distinguish themselves at hearings, argue that the casino would drive tourism, create union jobs, and provide spillover benefits to local restaurants and businesses. Caesars has promised to integrate its customer rewards program with nearby establishments, a gesture designed to reassure skeptics.

Labor leaders split on the issue. While Broadway unions largely opposed the project, others stressed the potential opportunity cost of rejecting Caesars. “Every other proposed site would take away from a possible site for affordable housing,” said Una Adams of Laborers Local 79. “Our members need affordable housing … which can be built on one of those other sites.” Caesars has committed to creating 3,000 construction jobs, fewer than rival Manhattan bids, but promises a strong record in casino operations.

A casino threatens to overwhelm this unique neighbourhood character.

High Stakes for a Landmark Decision

The CAC’s six members will vote Wednesday at the Times Square Alliance building. A two-thirds majority (four votes) is required for the project to move forward. With eight proposals vying for three licenses statewide — and three competing bids in Manhattan alone — the outcome could shape both the city’s entertainment landscape and the future of Times Square itself.

For advocates, the project represents a chance to harness the energy of one of the world’s most iconic districts. For opponents, it risks diluting the very character that makes Times Square unique. As the CAC prepares for its decision, the divide remains sharp — red versus purple, theatre versus casino, heritage versus reinvention.