Sands Eyes Long Island for a Downstate New York Gaming License to Establish its Next World-Class Integrated Resort

In January 2023, Sands announced it will pursue development of a multi-billion-dollar flagship hospitality, entertainment and casino project on Long Island, New York, as part of the state’s downstate gaming license process. Since then, the company has outlined an extensive plan to positively impact the local community in a variety of ways ranging from increasing tourism and entertainment attractions to bringing jobs and career pathways, local business opportunities, and community investment.

Planned Development

Sands has completed the long-term lease purchase of the site currently home to the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, granting the company with control of up to 80 acres in Nassau County, New York. The planned integrated resort will offer an array of entertainment, dining and shopping options; outdoor community spaces; four and five-star hotel rooms; a world-class live performance venue; flexible meeting and convention space with ballrooms; and high-quality casino gaming.

Sands also signed an agreement with Canyon Ranch to develop a signature spa, fitness and food destination at the planned resort. Recognized as one of the industry’s top wellness service providers, Canyon Ranch will provide another major attraction, further positioning Long Island as a must-visit destination for global tourists.

In addition, the integrated resort will feature a world-class selection of dining options designed to put Long Island on the culinary map for global tourism. Sands has signed memorandums of understanding with several leading restaurants and multi-brand groups including Rao’s, Jean-Georges, estiatorio Milos, 50 Eggs, D.ream International, local favorite Poll Restaurants of Long Island, Maximal Concepts and Lettuce Entertain You.

A key facet of Sands’ development plans should it be successful in obtaining a downstate gaming license is the company’s multi-faceted approach to delivering economic and social value to the region.

Workforce Development

Mirroring the company’s current commitment to invest $200 million in workforce development programs by 2025, Sands has taken steps to outline the initial efforts it will pursue in Long Island. In March, Sands, Long Island University (LIU) and Nassau Community College (NCC) agreed in principle to create a comprehensive hospitality program for Long Island college students to prepare for jobs and create career paths in tourism-related disciplines. The partnership will establish a bridge between LIU and NCC, empowering NCC graduates to advance their two-year associate’s degrees to four-year bachelor’s degrees at LIU’s nearby campus.

Additionally, NCC will partner with Sands to develop a workforce development training hub with planned programs in hotel and casino management, security and surveillance, meetings and banquets, entertainment, and food and beverage services. Learning models will include internships and other experiential components for NCC students.

Local Business Opportunities

Supporting local small and medium businesses (SMBs) also is a core priority for Sands in its regions around the world. The company kicked off its commitment to Long Island businesses with a series of procurement academies. In July, Sands hosted its second academy for more than 400 small business owners, entrepreneurs and prospective vendors at Suffolk County Community College, providing exposure to the company’s procurement process and team of decision-makers while lending insights into working with a large-scale global company.

Community Investment

Through Sands Cares, the company’s global community engagement program, Sands also has developed innovative programs that blend the company’s core issue priorities with the specific needs of the Long Island community.

For example, education and developing the workforce of the future is a core Sands Cares priority. In line with this focus, the company established the Sands Cares Youth Empowerment Initiative, which aims to inspire Long Island youth to believe in their potential, explore new possibilities and take pride in their community through uplifting experiences and programs curated by Sands.

Soccer legends David Beckham and Carli Lloyd joined Sands in kicking off the initiative in March in an event that featured remarks by the soccer stars as well as drills for more than 400 youth.

On September 12, Sands and First Tee will host a golf clinic with two-time PGA major winner Collin Morikawa for 100 local students at Eisenhower Park in the heart of Nassau County. Under the supervision of First Tee coaches for full-swing and short-game skills training, students will have the opportunity to practice alongside Morikawa and learn from one of pro golf’s top athletes.

Sands Cares Ambassadors also have joined community events at Long Island’s annual Juneteenth Cultural Festival and the Spirit of Unity Juneteenth Celebration, as well as the Long Island Pride Parade and Festival produced by the LGBT Network.

“We intend to create a development that is uniquely Long Island by investing in existing community and cultural projects and working closely with local businesses, institutions and causes,” said Ron Reese, senior vice president of global communications and corporate affairs, who spearheads corporate responsibility initiatives for the company. “We are excited to bring our ambitious vision and a thriving tourism industry to Long Island – and with that comes our strong commitment to ensuring Long Island’s strength and vitality.”

To learn more about Sands’ efforts to pursue a downstate gaming license in New York and its workforce development, local business and community engagement efforts on Long Island, visit https://sandsnewyork.com/.