A proposed casino project in Hudson Yards is drawing criticism from small business owners who fear it could undermine local commerce. Many entrepreneurs in Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen worry that a large-scale casino in their neighborhood would do more harm than good.

While Wynn Resorts is pushing for a high-end gaming and entertainment complex, the plan remains under review. Some critics argue that large-scale, destination-style casinos may struggle to integrate seamlessly with local businesses. In contrast, online sites like Stake casino alternatives have shown how digital gaming can operate within a broader ecosystem, engaging players without the physical limitations of a single location.

This raises questions about whether traditional casino developments can drive local economic activity in the same way or if they risk isolating visitors from surrounding businesses.

Local business owners Fathy Rady and Robert Sanfiz made their stance clear in an op-ed for AMNY. Rady, who operates a halal cart, and Sanfiz, owner of La Nacional, a Spanish restaurant, expressed concerns that such a casino would undermine their recently recovered business operations. "We share the desire for development and economic growth," they wrote, "but this project, in its current form, is a direct threat to the small businesses that make Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen unique."

Their argument isn't against casinos altogether. They acknowledge that some gaming venues actively drive traffic to surrounding businesses, benefiting the local economy as they aim to integrate loyalty programs that direct visitors to nearby restaurants and retailers. But Rady and Sanfiz worry that Wynn's project will function as a closed ecosystem, keeping customers inside its walls instead of contributing to the broader community.

Hudson Yards has undergone significant transformation over the past decade. The pandemic dealt a heavy blow to many businesses here, and recovery remains ongoing. Opponents of the casino fear it could reverse progress by altering the balance between residential and commercial spaces. "We still feel the lingering impacts of the pandemic, and we're working hard to recover," they wrote. "This casino development could undo much of that progress."

Resistance is gaining traction. Manhattan Community Board 4 has formally opposed the project, and Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine has also voiced concerns. Activist groups like Protect The High Line continue to campaign against the casino, arguing that it prioritizes corporate interests over community needs.

Still, the final decision rests with New York's Gaming Facility Location Board and the New York State Gaming Commission. Mayor Eric Adams and the City Council could ultimately support the project, which might shift its standing in the competition for three downstate casino licenses. That uncertainty fuels urgency among those who oppose the development.

Local business owners are calling for action. Rady and Sanfiz are urging their peers and neighbors to speak up, writing letters, testifying at hearings, and using social media to amplify their concerns. "We must demonstrate to our city leaders that this plan will hurt, not help, our community," they wrote. "Let's work together to ensure that development benefits everyone, not just the developers."