New York Teachers’ Union Rejects Caesars’ Casino Plans

The New York’s most influential teachers’ union, the United Federation of Teachers (UFT), has strongly rejected Caesars’ Times Square casino plans. Representatives of the union argued that the property, which is set to be located in the heart of Broadway, would undermine the famous theater district.

The UFT Wants to Protect Broadway

In an interview with the New York Post, the union’s president, Michael Mulgrew, said that a casino would “dilute the distinctive power of Broadway.” He highlighted the district’s power to create significant educational and career opportunities for students and added that the Broadway League offers programs that provide students with an opportunity to see a performance before they graduate.

Mulgrew elaborated that he has personally chaperoned students on trips to the theater, some of whom had never seen a show. As a result, he concluded that Broadway is an “educational goldmine for the children” of New York and therefore should be protected.

The UFT has now joined a growing community of opponents of Caesars’ casino plans. The No Times Square Coalition currently includes The Broadway League, as well as 30 other industry groups. The Broadway League, which is leading the efforts against the casino, believes that the theater district is already an important driver of tourism and does not need a casino.

Mulgrew added that he, personally, does not have a problem with a casino in the city but believes a location that needs an economic boost would be a better choice.

Caesars Believes the UFT Misunderstands Its Project

A spokesperson for Caesars noted that the UFT does not seem to understand the project’s intention. According to the leading casino company, a world-class entertainment destination would enrich Times Square.

In addition, it would stimulate more people to visit Broadway shows, the spokesperson argued. They added that Caesars plans to provide tens of millions of dollars in Broadway tickets to New York City students and educational problems. This vow is in line with the promises outlined in the company’s casino bid.

Caesars added that the union that represents Broadway actors and musicians already supports the casino plans as it realizes the benefits a Caesars property on Times Square would bring.

For context, Caesars plans to construct a casino at 1515 Broadway, should it secure one of the coveted downstate New York casino licenses. The state is planning to award the three licenses next year, following years of delays. With such a limited supply of licenses, New York has become a battleground for casino giants vying for the chance to operate a casino in The Big Apple.

However, the UFT is not the only group to oppose the operators’ casino plans. Protect the High Line, for example, has firmly rejected Wynn’s vision for a local property.