JAY-Z‘s Roc Nation has penned an open letter to New York City explaining why it should be awarded the contract to break ground on a casino in the heart of Times Square.
The Roc has partnered with Caesars Palace and is eager to earn the gaming license that’s expected to be handed out by the state later this year.
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According to TMZ, Hov’s RN letter ended up in NYC-based newspapers such as The New York Post and New York Daily News on Thursday (May 11) as Roc Nation envisions an eight-story casino with table games built on the existing 1515 Broadway skyscraper in Times Square’s theater district.
While some in the theater industry are vehemently opposing the idea of a casino coming to their backyard, Jay attempted to ease their worries and promised to benefit and provide financial aid for the community.
Roc Nation’s bid will reportedly divert $115million directly to invest in “diverse theater programs” to protect Broadway’s interests as well as deliver a transportation plan, and invest in sanitation and security.
“New York is the epicenter of culture. We have the opportunity to create a destination at the heart of the true crossroads of the word,” Hov said in a statement. “My partnership with SL Green and Caesars has all the promise and commitment to economic opportunity, growth and enrichment for the community and everyone that visits the Empire State.”
The proposed casino, set to be called Caesars Palace Times Square, would occupy eight floors in the 54-story tower between West 43rd and 44th.
The casino floors would also house restaurants and entertainment uses, while an 800-room five-star hotel would be created in the building above.
However, Jay’s team is the only one looking to build the casino in Times Square when the state’s gaming license gets awarded.
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“This is our moment, our opportunity to capture the energy of Times Square and invest in our city. You’re a New Yorker, you get it,” Roc Nation’s letter concludes.
There’s heavy competition outside of Roc Nation which includes Wynn Resorts as well as multi-billionaire New York Mets owner Steve Cohen looking to secure the gaming license.
