As the gambling landscape in the northeastern United States continues to shift, many in Atlantic City are bracing for the potential impact of new competition from neighboring New York. With multiple large-scale casino projects underway in the Empire State, some industry experts fear that Atlantic City could see more casino closings if players choose to stay closer to home.
One of the most anticipated developments is the opening of three new casinos in the Catskills region, which will add to the existing gaming options in New York City and other parts of the state. These properties, which are expected to offer a wide range of amenities and attractions, could attract visitors who would otherwise travel to Atlantic City for their gambling entertainment.
In addition to the new casinos, New York is also considering the legalization of sports betting, which could further draw customers away from Atlantic City’s sportsbooks. As more states across the country move to legalize sports betting in the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, competition in the industry is heating up.
Atlantic City has already experienced a number of casino closings in recent years, with several iconic properties shutting their doors for good. The most recent closure was the Trump Taj Mahal in 2016, which was once one of the largest and most popular casinos in the city. The loss of such a major player in the market was a blow to the local economy and put thousands of people out of work.
While some in the industry remain optimistic about Atlantic City’s ability to weather the storm, others are more cautious. The city has made significant strides in recent years to diversify its offerings beyond just gambling, with new attractions like the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and the Ocean Resort Casino drawing in visitors for entertainment, dining, and shopping. However, the potential impact of increased competition from New York cannot be ignored.
As Atlantic City prepares for the possibility of more casino closings, local officials and industry leaders are exploring ways to stay competitive in the changing landscape. Some have called for more investment in non-gaming amenities, such as restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, to attract a wider range of visitors. Others are looking to expand the city’s marketing efforts to reach new markets and promote the unique offerings that set Atlantic City apart from its rivals.
Ultimately, the future of Atlantic City’s gaming industry will depend on how well the city can adapt to the challenges posed by new competition. While some may see the looming threat of more casino closings as a sign of trouble ahead, others believe that with the right strategies in place, Atlantic City can continue to thrive as a premier destination for gaming and entertainment on the East Coast. Only time will tell how the city will fare in the face of increased competition from New York’s burgeoning gambling industry.
