A proposed $8 billion casino hotel project in Queens, NY has gained significant community support, with five local community boards voting in favor of the Metropolitan Park development.

The project, a joint venture between New York Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International, received approvals from community boards 3, 6, 7, 8, and 9. These votes specifically addressed two crucial zoning changes required for the project to proceed in the competition for three New York City-area casino licenses.

Key project details include:

• 25 acres of public parkland
• 5 acres of athletic fields
• Live music venue
• Enhanced cycling infrastructure
• $163 million community impact fund
• Projected creation of 25,000 jobs
• Estimated $1 billion local economic benefit

The development still faces several hurdles:

• Pending approval from Community Board 4 (scheduled for mid-December)
• Review by Queens Borough President Donovan Richards
• Evaluation by City Planning Commission
• Final approval from City Council
• Resolution of parkland classification issues

State Sen. Jessica Ramos (D-Queens) has expressed opposition regarding the parkland classification of Willets Point, though alternative solutions are being explored. New York regulators are specifically seeking applications free from environmental and land use challenges.

While New York City Mayor Eric Adams hasn't explicitly endorsed any specific casino proposal, he supports the establishment of at least one gaming venue within the five boroughs. The project's advancement through these community board approvals marks a significant step forward in the competitive process for securing one of the three available downstate casino licenses.

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