Jay-Z’s vision for a Caesars Palace casino in Times Square hit a major setback. The hip hop mogul and Roc Nation joined forces with SL Green Realty Corporation, Caesars Entertainment, and Live Nation in hopes of bringing a gambling destination to the heart of New York City. On September 17th, a community advisory committee blocked the plan by voting against advancing the project.
Ahead of the decision, Jay-Z spoke to City & State New York, explaining why he believed the casino could be transformative. “New York City is the entertainment capital of the world,” he said. “I’ve always looked at opportunities that can shift culture while uplifting communities, and Caesars Palace Times Square is exactly that.” He also insisted that a casino would not diminish Broadway’s presence. “Our vision is to build a destination that not only attracts visitors but also gives New Yorkers a place they’re proud to enjoy. A casino here doesn’t compete with Times Square – it complements it.”
Despite his optimism, Broadway leadership welcomed the committee’s move. Jason Laks, president of the Broadway League, released a statement praising the outcome as a safeguard for the theater district. He pointed to the thousands of New Yorkers whose jobs depend on Broadway and the millions of tourists who travel to experience it. In his words, “a casino can go anywhere, but Broadway only lives here.”
The reaction from SL Green CEO Marc Holliday was far less measured. He called the decision by the committee “despicable,” criticizing the members directly after the vote, according to journalist Nick Garber.
The committee’s rejection has shut down the Times Square casino plan, leaving its future uncertain. While Jay-Z framed the project as an opportunity to boost culture, energy, and business in the city, local leaders and residents appear determined to keep Broadway at the center of the neighborhood.
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