Silverstein's Casino Plans Rejected by CAC, Leaving 41st Street and 11th Avenue Site in Limbo
The Community Advisory Committee has dealt a blow to Silverstein Properties' Avenir casino proposal, adding another "giant hole in the ground" to Midtown's already crowded landscape.
For the foreseeable future, Silverstein Properties' site on 41st Street and 11th Avenue will remain a "giant hole in the ground," as the six-member Community Advisory Committee (CAC) rejected the proposal in a 4 to 2 vote on Wednesday. This comes on the heels of SL Green's rejected pitch for a casino, which drew an emotional response from CEO Marc Holliday, who called the CAC's vote "despicable."
Silverstein Properties, along with Rush Street Gaming and Greenwood Gaming & Entertainment, had pitched the Avenir, a $7 billion casino complex planned for a long-vacant Midtown site. The project would have featured a 1,000-key hotel, a 1,500-seat theater, and a 100,000-square-foot casino, among other amenities.
The rejection by the CAC, which serves as an advisory board to the New York State Gaming Commission, highlights the ongoing controversy surrounding the placement of casinos in New York City. While some argue that a casino could bring economic benefits and job opportunities, others believe that it would contribute to social issues such as gambling addiction and crime.
As the CAC's decision is only advisory, the final say on the Avenir proposal will be made by the New York State Gaming Commission. However, the CAC's rejection could have a significant impact on the commission's decision, as they are tasked with considering the community's input and concerns.
"We are disappointed by the CAC's decision but remain committed to bringing the Avenir to Midtown,"