Robert DeSalvio Discusses Genting Americas East at Resorts World New York City

It’s a Wednesday evening in Southeast Queens, and the neon glow spilling from the third floor of Resorts World New York City isn’t just another flicker in the urban skyline—it’s the first legal, full-fledged casino table games in New York City history. By the time the sun sets on April 28, 2026, blackjack, craps, and roulette will no longer be a subway ride away to Atlantic City or a flight to Vegas. They’ll be right here, in the heart of Queens, where the hum of slot machines and the clatter of chips will echo through a space that, until now, was just another racino with a few hundred video lottery terminals.

For locals, this isn’t just another corporate expansion. It’s a seismic shift in the borough’s economic and social landscape, one that promises jobs, tax revenue, and a new kind of nightlife—but also raises questions about gambling addiction, neighborhood change, and who really benefits when the house always wins. If you’ve ever driven past the Aqueduct Racetrack on Rockaway Boulevard, you’ve seen the sprawling complex that’s about to transform into something far more ambitious. And if you live in Queens, this change is coming to your backyard.

The Long Road to Queens’ First Full Casino

New York’s relationship with gambling has always been complicated. For decades, the state limited casinos to tribal lands and upstate resorts, leaving downstate residents to cross state lines for a taste of Vegas-style gaming. That changed in 2013, when the state legalized commercial casinos—but only upstate. It wasn’t until 2022 that Albany finally approved three downstate licenses, setting off a high-stakes bidding war among developers. Resorts World, which had operated as a racino in Queens since 2011, was the first to cross the finish line, securing its license in December 2025.

The timing wasn’t accidental. Resorts World’s parent company, Genting Americas East, had spent years laying the groundwork—lobbying Albany, training local dealers, and even securing a high-profile endorsement from Queens-born rapper Nas. When the New York Gaming Commission gave the final green light, the casino was ready to open within months, a feat that competitors like Steve Cohen’s Metropolitan Park in Willets Point and Bally’s in the Bronx are still working toward. As Robert DeSalvio, president of Genting Americas East, put it in a recent statement: “New York City has never seen anything like what we’re planning for April 28.”

That statement isn’t hyperbole. The casino’s expansion includes 240 table games and thousands of new slot machines, all housed on a reimagined third floor that’s been under construction for over a year. For context, that’s more table games than some of the smaller casinos in Las Vegas. And while the $5.5 billion investment—spread across the 72-acre site—includes non-gaming amenities like restaurants and entertainment spaces, the core of the project is undeniably the casino itself. It’s a gamble, both literally and figuratively, on Queens’ appetite for high-stakes gaming.

Who Stands to Win—and Who Might Lose

On paper, the benefits are clear. Resorts World has already trained and hired over 400 local residents through its Dealer School, with another 500 graduates expected by May. That’s nearly 1,000 new jobs in a borough where unemployment has hovered above the citywide average for years. The casino’s opening is also expected to generate millions in tax revenue for the state and city, funds that could theoretically be funneled into schools, infrastructure, or social services. And then there’s the intangible boost to Queens’ reputation—a signal that the borough is no longer just a bedroom community for Manhattan but a destination in its own right.

But not everyone is celebrating. Gambling addiction advocates have long warned about the risks of expanding casino access, particularly in densely populated urban areas. Queens, with its diverse, working-class neighborhoods, is exactly the kind of place where problem gambling can take a heavy toll. Studies have shown that proximity to casinos increases gambling-related harm, including financial distress, family breakdowns, and even suicide. The New York Council on Problem Gambling, a non-profit that tracks addiction trends, has already flagged concerns about the downstate casino rollout, noting that the state’s existing problem gambling hotlines have seen a spike in calls since the licenses were approved.

There’s also the question of who these jobs are really for. While Resorts World has touted its local hiring, critics point out that many of the highest-paying positions—like pit bosses and casino managers—often go to industry veterans from out of state. And while the casino’s philanthropic efforts, like its $2.3 million donation to expand Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s cancer center, are commendable, they don’t offset the fact that the house always has an edge. For every dollar that flows into Queens’ economy from the casino, a portion will inevitably flow back out to Genting’s Malaysian parent company.

The Neighborhood Impact: What Changes for Southeast Queens

If you live in South Ozone Park, Richmond Hill, or Jamaica, the casino’s opening isn’t just a news story—it’s a tangible shift in your daily environment. The area around Aqueduct Racetrack has long been a mix of industrial lots, low-rise housing, and slight businesses, with the racino serving as a quiet, if somewhat underwhelming, local attraction. That’s about to change.

Traffic is the most immediate concern. The casino’s existing parking lot, which already struggles to accommodate weekend crowds, will now have to handle thousands of additional visitors. Resorts World has promised to expand its shuttle service from local subway stations, but residents are skeptical. “I’ve lived here 20 years, and the traffic on Rockaway Boulevard is already a nightmare,” says a longtime South Ozone Park resident who asked not to be named. “Now we’re supposed to believe a few more buses are going to fix that?”

Then there’s the question of neighborhood character. Southeast Queens has always been a working-class, immigrant-heavy area, with a strong sense of community. The casino’s arrival could accelerate gentrification, driving up rents and pushing out long-time residents. It could also attract a new wave of businesses—high-end restaurants, luxury hotels, and entertainment venues—that cater to a wealthier clientele. For some, that’s a welcome sign of progress. For others, it’s a threat to the area’s identity.

And let’s not forget the noise. Casinos don’t close. The clanging of slot machines, the cheers from the craps tables, and the hum of late-night traffic will be a 24/7 soundtrack for nearby residents. Resorts World has pledged to invest in soundproofing and noise mitigation, but for those living within a mile of the casino, the change will be impossible to ignore.

The Bigger Picture: What So for New York’s Gambling Future

Resorts World’s opening is just the first act in a much larger story. By the end of 2026, two more downstate casinos are expected to open: Steve Cohen’s Metropolitan Park in Willets Point and Bally’s in the Bronx. Together, they’ll transform New York City into a major gambling hub, rivaling Las Vegas and Atlantic City in terms of gaming revenue. And with sports betting already legal in the state, the lines between casino gambling and other forms of wagering are blurring fast.

For Queens, this could mean a new era of economic growth—or a cautionary tale about the costs of unchecked development. The borough has always been a place of reinvention, from the rise of Flushing’s Chinatown to the tech boom in Long Island City. But with each wave of change comes trade-offs. The question is whether the jobs, tax revenue, and tourism will outweigh the social costs, or if Queens will identify itself grappling with the same issues that have plagued other casino-dependent cities.

One thing is certain: the genie is out of the bottle. New York’s gambling expansion is here, and Queens is ground zero. Whether that’s a cause for celebration or concern depends on who you ask.

What This Means for You: A Local’s Guide to Navigating the Change

Given my background in urban economics and community development, I’ve seen how large-scale projects like this can reshape neighborhoods—sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse. If you live in Queens, here’s what you need to know about how this casino expansion might affect you, and the types of local professionals who can support you navigate the changes.

1. Zoning and Land-Use Attorneys

With new development comes new zoning challenges. If you’re a homeowner or small business owner near the casino, you may face pressure to sell your property, or you might find yourself dealing with increased traffic, noise, or property tax reassessments. A local zoning attorney can help you understand your rights, challenge unfair assessments, and navigate the often-confusing world of land-use regulations. Look for someone with experience in:

• Queens-specific zoning laws (the borough has its own quirks, like the Special South Richmond Development District)
• Property tax appeals (especially if your assessment spikes due to the casino’s arrival)
• Negotiating with developers (if you’re approached about selling your property)

2. Problem Gambling Counselors and Financial Advisors

The casino’s opening will make gambling more accessible than ever for Queens residents. If you or someone you know is at risk of developing a gambling problem, early intervention is key. Local counselors specializing in gambling addiction can provide therapy, support groups, and strategies for managing urges. Meanwhile, financial advisors can help those who’ve already been affected by gambling losses rebuild their finances. When seeking help, prioritize professionals who:

• Are certified by the National Council on Problem Gambling or a similar organization
• Have experience working with diverse, urban populations (Queens’ demographics are unique)
• Offer sliding-scale fees or pro bono services (many non-profits in the area do)

3. Community Organizers and Advocacy Groups

Change doesn’t have to be passive. If you’re concerned about the casino’s impact on your neighborhood—whether it’s traffic, gentrification, or gambling addiction—getting involved with local advocacy groups can make a difference. These organizations work to hold developers accountable, push for community benefits agreements, and ensure that new projects serve the public good. Look for groups that:

• Have a track record in Southeast Queens (e.g., Queens Congress, Jamaica Business Improvement District)
• Focus on equitable development (not just opposition for opposition’s sake)
• Offer volunteer opportunities or town hall meetings where you can voice your concerns

Ready to find trusted professionals? Browse our complete directory of top-rated experts in the Queens area today.