Sharpton and Williams Add Influence to Caesars Proposal
Caesars Entertainment has strengthened its push for a Times Square casino by securing support from civil rights leader Reverend Al Sharpton and tech entrepreneur Ryan Williams. The proposed project, located at 1515 Broadway, aims to transform an existing office building into a gaming and entertainment venue in the heart of New York City.
Sharpton’s endorsement marks a notable shift, given his previous opposition to gambling expansion. In 2020, he publicly urged Colorado lawmakers to block mobile betting, citing concerns over job losses and social consequences. However, his stance appears to have evolved, with the reverend now supporting a project he believes will offer ownership opportunities for local communities.
Jay-Z’s Involvement Plays a Role
Sharpton credited Jay-Z’s influence in his change of position. Roc Nation, the entertainment company founded by the rapper, is one of Caesars’ partners on the Times Square initiative, alongside SL Green Realty Corp. Sharpton noted that for the first time, the community would not only be part of the conversation but potentially share in the ownership.
“A New York casino belongs in Times Square and it should be designed to benefit all New Yorkers,” Sharpton stated. He described the proposal as a step toward economic inclusion, particularly for underrepresented groups.
Williams Pushes for Economic Access
Ryan Williams, best known for founding the real estate platform Cadre, also voiced his support. Williams emphasized that the project aligns with his mission to make large-scale investments accessible to lower-income individuals. Caesars confirmed that households in the Times Square area could participate in the project with investments starting at $500.
Williams framed the initiative as a breakthrough in community investment: “Through the Rev’s extensive network and our shared dedication to economic inclusion, we will move from promises to real progress.”
He added that the approach aims to remove financial barriers and introduce meaningful investor education alongside opportunities for equity growth.
Caesars Emphasizes Local Impact
Caesars has repeatedly underscored its commitment to the communities surrounding its properties. In 2024 alone, the company reported over $71 million in community investments connected to the Times Square proposal, with an overall economic impact of $10 billion distributed across stakeholders.
By partnering with Sharpton and Williams, Caesars hopes to amplify the social value of its bid while gaining traction ahead of a critical licensing deadline.
Support Grows as Casino Deadline Nears
With the New York State deadline for downstate casino licence applications set for June 27, Caesars is rallying public and institutional support. Developers say more than 200 organizations have endorsed the Times Square casino plan. This includes high-profile names such as Geoff Ballotti, CEO of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, and representatives from various labor unions.
Still, the proposal faces opposition from the Broadway theater community, which has expressed concerns about the casino’s proximity to performance venues.
Strong Competition in New York Casino Race
Caesars is not alone in vying for one of the three potential licenses to be issued by the end of the year. Other contenders include MGM Resorts, Resorts World New York City, Thor Equities, Bally’s, Soloviev Group, Seminole Hard Rock, and Silverstein Properties.
Another competing project gaining momentum is a proposed casino in Queens, backed by New York Mets owner Steve Cohen. That plan, located across from Citi Field, has garnered increased interest and media attention in recent months.
Summary of Key Caesars Supporters
| Supporter | Role | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Rev. Al Sharpton | Civil Rights Leader | Endorsement, community support, equity advocacy |
| Ryan Williams | Real Estate Entrepreneur | Investment access strategy, financial inclusion |
| Jay-Z / Roc Nation | Entertainment Partner | Influence, cultural appeal, strategic backing |
