#Resorts World Casino to open hotel at Aqueduct Racetrack

Many New York hotels are sitting largely empty because of lost business due to the coronavirus pandemic.

But the owner of Resorts World Casino NYC at Aqueduct in Queens announced plans Monday to open a new $400 million Hyatt Regency-run hotel next to its gambling facility, which is located near JFK airport.

The hotel will be called Hyatt Regency JFK at Resorts World New York

Malaysian-based Genting Americas always envisioned opening a hotel adjacent to its casino when it opened a decade ago. The casino sits next to Aqueduct race track.

Genting’s strong global ties — particularly in Asia — could help woo more customers from JFK airport to its casino resort.

Genting’s Resorts World casino in the Catskills features a hotel.

The deep-pocketed casino operator is not afraid to think big.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo even briefly entertained Genting’s ambitious plan to open a convention center at Aqueduct — though the idea fizzled after the Manhattan-based tourism and trade industries and state lawmakers voiced objections to replacing the Javits Center on Manhattan’s West Side.

Resorts World at Aqueduct also has been severely impacted by the COVID-outbreak, having been forced to close for months and then only allowed to reopen at limited capacity.

The plan calls for an eight-story, 400-room, “four-star” hotel to open in 2021.

The hotel will also include new restaurants, state-of-the-art conference and meeting spaces, retail stores, and additional gaming areas.

“Hyatt’s global brand recognition will give Resorts World an even greater opportunity to tap into the travel and tourism market worldwide and showcase our unparalleled hospitality, gaming, dining and entertainment offerings,” said Bob DeSalvio, president of Genting Americas East.

“We are proud to work with such an iconic brand as we move NY Forward, and we are excited that guests will soon be able to enjoy an integrated casino resort experience right here in Queens.”

Pete Sears, Hyatt’s America’s group president, said, “We are pleased to collaborate with Genting on this exciting new property and deliver on the Hyatt Regency brand promise of making travel free from stress and filled with success. This new hotel will be a testament to Hyatt’s commitment to growing with intent in markets that matter most to our loyal members and global guests.”

Resorts World NYC is the only casino in New York City, offering over 6,000 slots and electronic table games to millions of guests annually.

The hotel addition is projected to create more than 500 jobs and generate as well as revenues dedicated to state schools.

Queens lawmakers welcomed the hotel to the southeast Queens.

“This hotel creates job opportunities for hundreds of the borough’s residents and is an important step in improving the gaming experience in Queens,” said state Sen. Joe. Addabbo Jr., who represents the Aqueduct communities.

“Resorts World Casino New York City is doing its part to show tourists there is more to New York City than just Manhattan. I look forward to more people exploring the borough I’ve called home my entire life.”

Said Congressman Gregory Meeks, “I congratulate Resorts World New York and Hyatt and look forward to seeing the jobs created in the community as a result of this partnership.”