On the site of the former Nassau Coliseum, Las Vegas Sands is proposing an integrated casino resort

Las Vegas Sands, a massive casino and resort operator in Las Vegas, has started planning an expansion. The corporation has put in a proposal to acquire the privilege of constructing a new tourist attraction on the current site of the demolished Nassau Coliseum in New York's southeastern borough of Nassau.

A new property is planned to be built with private money, and the projected value of the destination is $4 billion. The property will feature a casino if the proposal and licence are approved by the state. It will also feature outdoor community spaces, four- and five-star hotel rooms and, as per a statement from a Sands official, "a world-class live performance venue honouring the long legacy of live music at the Nassau Coliseum."

The county finally leased out their land, and Las Vegas Sands moved in as the new tenant. 

Awaiting the go-ahead from the government

Officials from the corporation, however, assured everyone that construction would continue regardless of whether or not the state gave its blessing. 

"Our announcement today is only the first part of this journey," said Robert G. Goldstein, chairman and chief executive officer of the firm. Engaging with the Long Island community and developing a plan together that represents the input of all those involved is crucial to our capacity to put up a compelling and competitive proposal.

If the Nassau County Legislature gives its stamp of approval, the firm will manage the Coliseum and an adjacent 72 acres of Uniondale land. In all of the county, this is the largest undeveloped plot of land. 

With a 12-7 majority in the legislature, any proposed changes to the Coliseum lease would need to be approved by the 19-person body.

When asked about potential developments in Nassau County, Bruce Blakeman, the county executive, said, "The Sands Corporation has indicated that they will be making a proposal to site an entertainment centre and luxury hotel with a gambling casino that will occupy less than 10% of the total project."

Blake is widely recognised as the Republican, therefore his views are often anticipated. He also noted that it was too soon to make any firm commitments, but that he was keeping an open mind and would be happy to discuss specific lease conditions if the neighbourhood approved of the concept. 

Officials from Sands declined to provide specifics about the plan's financing or the lease transfer agreements. 

New York issues the following licences:

Only a week ago, New York state made the decision to accept applications from any casino operators interested in constructing gaming facilities in the downstate area. Numerous operators will vie for three licences awarded by the state's Gaming Facility Location Board to establish large-scale, Las Vegas-style casinos in the area. Slot machines, video poker, and other electronic gambling services will be considered together with more traditional table games like poker and blackjack when awarding licences.