Jay-Z Explains His Times Square Casino Proposal

Jay-Z and Roc Nation are partnering with SL Green and Caesars to make their pitch to open a casino in New York City’s Times Square. The mogul’s plan is to bring a multi-billion-dollar casino to the heart of Broadway; they would obtain one of the three available casino licenses for the downstate area. With a second hearing with the Community Advisory Committee taking place Thurs., (Sept. 11), Jay explained his plan.

“New York City is the entertainment capital of the world, so the idea of a world-class casino here makes perfect sense,” Jay explained to City & State New York. “I’ve always looked at opportunities that can shift culture while uplifting communities, and Caesars Palace Times Square is exactly that.”

The Roc Nation bid intends to stand out among competitors by giving back to the surrounding NYC community.

“The way we put it in our application is we made our license contingent upon us providing and writing these checks,” Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez told Billboard. “For example, for the LGBTQ initiative, we’re providing five million dollars to Callen-Lorde. We’re just putting the money in their hands and they’ve agreed with us. We have an agreement with them in writing about what they are going to do with that money.”

Officials for the bid have begun community outreach—to connect with initiatives from marginalized communities in that area of Manhattan. 

“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,” he added. “We’re creating a hub that draws even more people into the neighborhood, generating new energy, new business, and new opportunities for everyone.”