Op-Ed by Putnam County Executive Kevin M. Byrne
If approved later this year, MGM Empire City’s application for one of the three available state commercial casino licenses would be a game-changer for the region. Their plan to expand table gaming and other entertainment opportunities in Yonkers isn’t just good for Westchester—it’s good for the entire Hudson Valley, including Putnam County.
While Yonkers may not fall within Putnam’s borders, our residents are deeply connected to the area. Many commute there for work, entertainment, or to visit family and friends. Believe it or not, some even call parts of Putnam “Yonkers North.” What happens in Yonkers has a direct impact on Putnam and the surrounding region, and Empire City’s project is no exception.
Prior to becoming County Executive, I had the privilege of representing both Westchester and Putnam in the state assembly. For years, I worked with colleagues from both parties to push for additional downstate commercial casino licenses. We knew what this could mean for jobs, new revenue, and overall economic growth. Now the time has come to deliver on that promise.
Empire City is now the only applicant outside of the five boroughs of New York City. It’s been part of our community for decades, has an experienced workforce, and is in the perfect location to serve residents and visitors from across the tri-state area. Just as important, this project is shovel-ready. MGM has stated in its application materials that it can keep its current operations running while construction is underway, ensuring steady revenue and a faster build-out than other competing proposals.
As proposed, this project would also generate gaming revenue to be shared across the region—millions of dollars that could help keep taxes more affordable, improve roads and infrastructure, and expand services like public transportation for seniors and other vulnerable citizens. On top of that, the project will create 2,000 new jobs with average compensation packages of $150,000, opening doors to good careers for individuals and families across the Hudson Valley.
Approving a license for Empire City means keeping revenue here in New York, creating new opportunities for working families, and strengthening communities beyond the city limits. A 2021 NYS Senate Finance Committee report estimated that downstate casinos could generate over $1 billion annually in new state revenue, much of which would otherwise flow to neighboring states such as Connecticut.
Thanks to a successful “track” record of job creation and regional economic growth, I believe MGM Empire City casino should receive one of the three commercial casino licenses currently up for grabs.
As the only proposed business model left outside the City of New York, Empire City is the best bet, not only for our region, but our state.
