There are plans to bring a multi-billion-dollar casino to Nassau County, but how do residents feel about this?
Written by: Yeiri Flores
Earlier this month the Nassau County Legislature voted in favor of granting Las Vegas Sands, a 99- year long lease in order to begin the development of a world- class casino, hotel, restaurants, and entertainment space. In Uniondale, right across Hofstra University sits Nassau Coliseum and acres of property that have been otherwise vacant for years. Officials from the area and supporters of this project believe that this is an opportunity to generate revenue, in addition to creating more jobs. Those opposed to this project believe that this will only head to more issues in the future and are concerned for their community. This is far from an accomplished project that still has a long way to go in terms of approvals and licensing.
Members of the community have mixed feelings about this project and are voicing their concerns. One concerned woman mentioned that “although casinos are fun, I believe that it will quickly become a distraction for everyone in our community.” The same woman voiced that she believes officials should put efforts into improving other aspects of the community and focus less on opening a casino. She stated, “if we want more foot traffic, we should work together to think about other business opportunities that will make a positive impact.”
One woman can recall her time attending the local public high school and the lack of opportunities, funds and effort put into girl’s athletics. She believes that the town should turn their effort towards funding more programs in the middle and the high school. She states, “there are more important things we could pay for, like maybe a new field or equipment for the students, it would be a slap in the face to see it go towards something so vain.”
Not all Uniondale locals feel the same way, one man believes this addition would be a good thing for the community. He states, “more traffic, more people coming into the town which produces more money and increases value around the neighborhood.” He shares that as an effect, he believes that this will also produce more revenue for the neighboring towns and help small business along the way.
One Uniondale mother shares that she was not even aware a casino was in the works in the town. She stated, “like most things in this county, I'm not aware so I don’t have much of an option in the matter.” She provides her opinion that while the opening of a casino in such a small town would surely help drive revenue, this would also lead to an increase in crime and gambling problems.
Located nearby are two college campuses and some parents and students are unsure on this decision. Nassau Community College (NCC) shared their desire to partner up with Las Vegas Sands to improve their hospitality management program and create a training center for NCC students located conveniently nearby at the casino. On the other hand, Hofstra University is strongly opposed to this proposal of creating a casino. One Hofstra student states, “it’s going to be interesting to see if a university and casino can coexist right across from each other”, he also voiced concerns about how he believes the traffic arriving to school is going to be so much worse for students and staff. One Hofstra parent shares her concern that having a casino and gambling so accessible is something that worries her. She admits, “I know my son is graduating soon, but truthfully I worry for the young students coming in that are going to get inevitably distracted.” The mother also makes the point to mention that many students that dorm may be negatively impacted by this new proposal due to the increase of noise and light pollution that will occur due to the new and large build.
The project still needs approval from the Town of Hempstead but is leaving many casino fanatics buzzing. This development is estimated to cost between four to five billion dollars and will contain many elements. This proposed project will consist of several amenities, casino aside, they are proposing to build hotel rooms, ballrooms, live entertainment areas/venues, restaurants, and a spa.
The future of the Nassau Coliseum that has been standing since February 1972 , is uncertain. If approved, it is left to the discretion of Las Vegas Sands whether the coliseum remains where it has been for years.
The coliseum holds a special place in many Long Islanders hearts and has historical significance. The coliseum has been home to different sporting events ranging from hockey to basketball and, entertainment events including performances by Billy Joel, Led Zeppelin and many more. The history that area holds is undeniable, and residents cannot wait to see what is next for their town.
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