City planning commission vote advances Coney Island casino development

A massive 1.3 million-square-foot development is in the works for Coney Island, featuring a casino, hotel, convention center, and retail space. Dubbed The Coney, the proposed project would be located on Surf Avenue, between Maimonides Park and Luna Park. The New York City Planning Commission has now approved the plans, moving it closer to realization.

While some local residents support the project for its potential to create jobs and stimulate the local economy, others have raised concerns about increased traffic, crime, and the possible displacement of small businesses.

Now that the New York City Planning Commission has given its approval, the next step is a vote by the New York City Council. If approved, the project will then face the challenge of securing one of only three downstate casino licenses from the New York State Gaming Facility Location Board—a competitive process with nearly a dozen contenders. The proposal is due by June 27, with voting set for September and a final decision expected on December 1.

Learn more about The Coney project and see more renderings here.