A Manhattan community board committee unanimously rejected zoning changes crucial for the proposed $12 billion Wynn NYC casino development at Hudson Yards. The Land Use Committee of Manhattan Community Board 4 (MCB4) expressed concerns about the project's shift from residential to commercial focus.

Related Cos.' current plan includes just 1,500 residential units, significantly less than the 5,762 residences outlined in their 2009 city agreement. The development would feature multiple towers, including one bearing the Wynn name.

While the board's opinion is non-binding, it could influence New York regulators' decision on downstate casino license allocation, expected in late 2025.

The project has divided local stakeholders:

• Friends of the High Line opposes the development, citing concerns about impact on park views
• Labor unions support the project, citing potential creation of 35,000 construction jobs and 5,000 permanent union positions

Related CEO Jeff Blau warned against letting this opportunity slip away, drawing parallels to the city's lost Amazon HQ2 project. However, opponents argue that casino development and associated jobs will come to New York City regardless - they just prefer not in their neighborhood.

The committee will present its findings to the full board for further consideration. The project represents a significant opportunity for Wynn Resorts to expand its U.S. presence beyond its current Las Vegas and Boston locations.

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