The competition for New York City’s coveted casino licenses intensifies as various stakeholders present their bids amidst public hearings and community debates. Mayor Eric Adams emphasizes the potential billions in economic benefits from new casinos, while billionaire Mets owner Steve Cohen emerges as a leading contender for a casino adjacent to Citi Field. The Freedom Plaza proposal stirs controversy among East Side residents, who fear losing out as developer influences are perceived to affect the bidding process. Meanwhile, other proposals like Resorts World and Metropolitan Park face scrutiny during hearings, with reports indicating a need for improved transit options to mitigate anticipated traffic congestion. As the city navigates through rejected bids and contentious discussions, the timeline for final decisions on casino licenses extends, prompting speculations about the broader impact of these developments on neighboring Atlantic City.