The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) has taken a firm stance against a proposed Times Square casino project funded by SL Green, Caesars Palace, and Jay-Z’s Roc Nation.
The union, which has opposed the plan since its inception, argues that placing a casino in the heart of Broadway could detract from the theater district’s ongoing recovery from COVID-19 and worsen traffic congestion.
Meanwhile, SL Green’s executive vice president Brett Herschenfeld argues that the casino would bring meaningful employment to the area and would bolster, rather than hinder, the theater industry.
Impact on theater attendance and traffic congestion
In New York’s theater scene, the IATSE represents thousands of lighting, costume, stage designers, and other theater workers. It is vocal in its opposition to the Broadway bid. While the union does not oppose the concept of a casino in New York City, it objects to its location in Times Square.
“A casino in New York would add a new dimension to New York City’s vibrant entertainment industry but placing it amidst our theater district would be a mistake,” said the IATSE. “Casinos are self-contained and are designed to keep patrons inside for as long as possible."
The union argues that the iconic theater district and Broadway are still recovering from the financial hardship brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Having a casino in Times Square is not going to increase attendance at our venues,” added Carl Mulert, a national business agent of IATSE Local 829, as reported by the New York Post. “[Traffic is] already incredibly congested. We don’t want more,” he added. “It’s not good for Broadway.”
Opposition from residents
The opposition to the casino plan extends beyond the theater community. A survey conducted in May by the No Times Square Casino Coalition revealed that 71% of registered voters living in or near Times Square are against the proposed casino.
According to the official website, the No Times Square Casino Coalition’s mission is to safeguard the “unique, cultural significance of the theater district and its communities.” It includes the Broadway League, 54 Below, Hell’s Kitchen Neighborhood Association, United Scenic Artists, TDF, the Shubert Organization, and others.
Not all of Broadway says 'No'
Not all voices within the Broadway community are against the casino. Both the Actors’ Equity Association and Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians support the project.
“They’ve put in considerable effort to genuinely understand the ecosystem they’re entering so they can become positive contributors to a better Times Square and a better Broadway,” said a spokesperson for the Actors’ Equity Association.
The fight for a license
The trio of SL Green, Caesars Palace, and Roc Nation first submitted plans for a new casino at 1515 Broadway in 2023 but have continually faced push backs from local workers and residents. This proposal followed the state’s January 2023 opening of bidding for three downstate commercial casino licenses.
While the bid has drawn interest from big operators, the New York State Gaming Commission has warned that the lengthy approval process could result in applicants waiting until late 2025 to find out their fate.
