Las Vegas Sands environmental plan approved by state legislature

Las Vegas Sands Advances Environmental Plan for Sands New York, Paving the Way for Potential Downstate Casino License

Las Vegas Sands Corporation has made significant strides towards establishing a $4 billion integrated resort, Sands New York, on the site of the Nassau Coliseum in Long Island. This project recently achieved a pivotal milestone as the state legislature approved its comprehensive environmental plan, amid competitive bids for one of three coveted downstate casino licenses in New York City and its surroundings.

In a detailed report released on December 2, 2023, it was confirmed that the expansive 28,000-page environmental impact study of Sands New York is now accessible for public review and commentary on the Nassau County legislature’s website. Stakeholders have until January 6 to submit their feedback, with an in-person public hearing scheduled for December 9.

However, the proposed casino has faced notable opposition. Institutions such as Hofstra University and Kellenberg High School, along with neighboring communities, have raised concerns about increased crime rates, gambling addiction, traffic congestion, and environmental impacts. A coalition named ‘Say No to the Casino’ has emerged, actively mobilizing community members to voice their dissent at the upcoming public meeting on January 6.

Interestingly, Las Vegas Sands initially secured a 99-year lease on the Nassau Coliseum property, formerly the home turf for the NHL’s New York Islanders. Yet, a New York state judge invalidated this lease in 2023, citing insufficient public discourse surrounding the project.

Environmental Plan Includes $150 Million in Enhancements

In August, the Nassau County legislature, alongside its Rules Committee, ratified a new 42-year lease for the Sands New York initiative, contingent on successful environmental reviews. The endorsed environmental plan earmarks over $150 million for infrastructural improvements aimed at enhancing traffic flow and implementing measures to safeguard local wildlife. Importantly, the project includes the establishment of a gambling addiction support center, reflecting the operator’s commitment to responsible gaming.

In response to the proposed developments, the ‘Say No’ group articulated their concerns in a statement issued on November 22, highlighting potential adverse impacts on local traffic and mental health services. They asserted, “Even with a few segments of extra lanes, our parkways will not be able to handle the massive increase in traffic that LVS expects, and we have no feasible mass transit alternative. [The casino] will create an addiction crisis in our community that will put tremendous strain on our mental health and social services.”

Planned Resort to Encompass 72 Acres, With Casino Footprint Less Than 10%

The projected development will encompass a substantial 72 acres on the Coliseum site, incorporating the Sands New York Casino alongside outdoor community spaces, luxurious four- and five-star hotel accommodations, and a premier live performance venue that celebrates the rich musical heritage of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

The resort is designed to offer a plethora of amenities, including renowned chef-led restaurants, engaging experiential events, and versatile meeting and convention spaces. Other highlights will feature a luxury day spa, a swimming pool, and a health club, complemented by diverse entertainment programming aimed at enriching visitor experiences.

Adhering to Las Vegas Sands’ long-standing integrated resort strategy, the casino component is projected to occupy less than 10% of the overall resort space, emphasizing a holistic approach to visitor engagement and community integration.

Looking ahead, despite the project’s local challenges and opposition, it will still require state approval amidst stiff competition from the 11 proposals on the table. The bid submission deadline is set for June 2025, with the New York Facility Location Board aiming to issue the coveted licenses by the end of the following year.