The Caesars Palace Times Square Casino project is not just about gaming; it represents a significant commitment to community engagement and cultural heritage through the proposed Museum of Civil Rights.
Caesars Palace Times Square Casino Project Enhances Community Commitment
Caesars Palace Times Square – a collaborative effort by SL Green, Caesars Entertainment, JAY-Z’s Roc Nation, and Live Nation to introduce a premier gaming and entertainment venue at 1515 Broadway in Manhattan’s Broadway theater district – has revealed new initiatives to garner public support: a $15 million partnership with the Civil Rights Foundation to establish the Museum of Civil Rights, a new cultural institution to be located in Manhattan.
About the Museum of Civil Rights
The proposed Museum of Civil Rights aims to serve as a multicultural hub in New York City, dedicated to the ongoing fight for equality. It will celebrate heroes and showcase art, politics, literature, photography, film, music, posters, artifacts, and videos created by and for all groups advocating for equal opportunity in New York City and the Northeast.
Community Commitment
“Caesars Palace Times Square is more than a project—it’s a partnership with New Yorkers,” stated Garrett Armwood, Vice President at SL Green. “Supporting the Museum of Civil Rights reflects our belief that progress in this city is only real when it is inclusive, and when we honor those who fought to open doors of opportunity for all. This commitment is about preserving history while investing in the future, ensuring that Times Square remains not only the crossroads of the world but also a beacon of equity, diversity, and resilience for generations to come.”
Voices for Justice
“For decades, we’ve marched, organized, and raised our voices to demand justice. Now, thanks to this historic commitment from Caesars Palace Times Square, we will have a permanent home in the heart of New York City to tell that story,” said Reverend Al Sharpton. “Investments like this are what set this gaming proposal apart from all the rest: a demonstrated commitment to the community they seek to be a part of. Thank you for this support, and we look forward to making this project a reality.”
Investment in Public Benefits
This commitment is part of Caesars Palace Times Square’s $250 million investment in public benefits, which also includes public safety, workforce support, emergency medical services, and health equity initiatives across Times Square and surrounding neighborhoods.
Casino Proposal Details
The casino proposal involves repurposing an existing office building at 1515 Broadway, which houses, among other tenants, Broadway’s The Lion King. The design will feature a limited number of restaurants and hotel rooms to create excess demand for numerous existing establishments in neighboring communities. The coalition backing the bid now includes over 300 organizations and businesses, including local restaurants, hotels, residents, unions, and Broadway stakeholders who stand to benefit from the project.
Support for Community Health
Earlier this summer, Caesars Palace Times Square announced a $5 million commitment to support the Callen-Lorde Community Health Center if the bid is accepted for one of three downstate New York gaming licenses being considered. This financial pledge will be allocated to enhance Callen-Lorde’s existing services in Chelsea and to establish a new Center for Excellence in Sexual Health, aimed at expanding access to high-quality HIV and STI care.
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Community Opposition
The casino proposal has sparked division within the Broadway and Times Square communities. Opponents, including the Broadway League, TDF, The Shubert Organization, and various theater-related unions, cite concerns over increased traffic, congestion, and economic disruption.
Support from Local Organizations
In contrast, over 200 organizations and businesses, including local restaurants, hotels, residents, unions, and Broadway stakeholders, support the Caesars Palace proposal. The Actors Equity Association has expressed support, stating that the casino will bring jobs and safety to the area. The design aims to create excess demand for local establishments.
Future Prospects
Bids were submitted in 2023 after state lawmakers approved the opening of three downstate New York casinos. The state is expected to award the three licenses by the end of 2025.
Community Engagement
On June 25, supporters and opponents of the proposed Caesars Palace casino in the Broadway theater district held separate rallies in Times Square to promote their causes.
