Entertainment Community Fund Joins Movement Against Times Square Casino Bid

The movement against the proposed Caesars Palace Times Square Casino gained momentum this week when the Entertainment Community Fund joined the No Times Square Casino Coalition. The nonprofit organization, which helps professionals in the performing arts and entertainment industries, expressed deep worries about how such a project might affect the core of New York’s theater district.

Entertainment Community Fund Warns Casino Could Disrupt Times Square’s Cultural Hub

Joseph P. Benincasa, who leads the Fund as president and CEO, said the organization’s board opposes the casino plan. They worry it could make the area less safe and hurt the lives of theater workers and nearby businesses. He stressed that putting a casino in Times Square might shake up the neighborhood, which does well because of its arts and culture venues.

The No Times Square Casino Coalition came to life in 2023. It brings together local unions, theater groups, business owners, and community organizations. They all stand against the plan to build a casino at 1515 Broadway. The group has grown over time and now boasts 35 member organizations. Big names like the Broadway League, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, and the Shubert Organization have joined the cause. Many unions are also part of the coalition representing stagehands, costume designers, and other theater workers.

Neighborhood Groups Rally to Keep Times Square Focused on Arts, Not Gambling

The Entertainment Community Fund’s recent addition gives a big boost to the coalition’s work. Coalition members say a casino would bring crime and scare away theatergoers and tourists, putting the area’s fame as a top entertainment spot at risk. Local restaurants and shops worry they would lose customers, while people living there fear worse traffic and safety issues.

Jason Laks, who heads the Broadway League, is happy about the Fund joining in. He says their involvement makes the coalition stronger in its ongoing work to keep Times Square special and protect the people who live and work there.

Despite increasing pushback, the planned casino has supporters. Caesars Entertainment, SL Green Realty, and Roc Nation have teamed up for this project, which some hotel operators and property owners back. They see it as a way to boost the economy.

The state’s Gaming Facilities Location Board has started to evaluate bids for the three downstate casino licenses. The Times Square project faces tough odds due to strong community opposition. Yet, industry experts say it is still one of the more competitive proposals being looked at.