Jay-Z’s Times Square Casino Rejected—Gambling Addiction Concerns Lead to 4–2 Vote.

Jay-Z’s Times Square Casino Rejected—Gambling Addiction Concerns Lead to 4–2 Vote.

In the USA

The news as it trends. Video below. 

Jay-Z’s Roc Nation-backed proposal for a $5.4 billion casino in Times Square has been officially rejected by a community advisory board in a 4–2 vote.

The plan, which included a sprawling Caesars Palace complex, faced strong opposition from Broadway stakeholders and local residents who feared it would worsen addiction, crime, and congestion.

Critics argued that a casino would erode the cultural integrity of the area and attract predatory gambling practices.

Despite support from Mayor Eric Adams’ appointee, the project failed to secure the necessary votes to move forward.

The rejection marks a major setback for Roc Nation and its partners, SL Green and Caesars Entertainment. For many, it’s a win for community values over corporate ambition.

If the proposal had been approved, Jay-Z’s Roc Nation-backed casino would have been built at 1515 Broadway in Times Square, Manhattan.

That location is home to the Minskoff Theatre, which currently hosts The Lion King, a show watched by audiences of all ages—particularly families and children.

pic.twitter.com/4QqqTn129y

— Yeyetunde’s Blog (@YeyetundeB) September 18, 2025

A 6-person community advisory committee is about to vote on the $5.4B Times Square casino bid by SL Green, Caesars & Roc Nation in this conference room around the corner from where it would be built.

Outcome seems like a tossup; more than 2 nos would kill it. Updates to come… pic.twitter.com/QLDeEEUfPP

— Nick Garber (@nick_garber) September 17, 2025

Casino has been REJECTED 4-2

SL Green CEO Marc Holliday just approached the CAC members after the vote to harangue them: “What you did here today was despicable.” https://t.co/WvFCbhSkan pic.twitter.com/xl8nfOAJuP

— Nick Garber (@nick_garber) September 17, 2025