Hip-hop legend Nas is teaming up with Resorts World New York City to spearhead a monumental $5 billion redevelopment of the Queens-based Aqueduct Park casino, transforming it into a world-class destination that mirrors the company’s flagship properties in Las Vegas.
The bold vision reimagines the existing casino in Nas’ hometown of Queens, with plans to expand the gaming floor to an impressive 350,000 square feet, making it one of the largest casinos on the planet. The ambitious project, officially unveiled in a press release, will also include:
- 3,000 units of workforce housing
- Over 50 acres of new park space
- Enhanced transportation links to JFK Airport and Manhattan
In a statement, Nas highlighted the cultural and economic significance of the project, calling it a game-changing opportunity for his community.
“This is an ambitious project that will give new opportunities to the hard-working families who call Queens home, attract top-tier talent, and build up the next generation of leaders,” Nas said. “Clearly, with this project, the world is ours.”
As part of the expansion, Resorts World pledged $50 million to establish the new Genting Innovation Campus, featuring:
- The Kenny “The Jet” Smith Academy
- A Community Health and Wellness Center
- The Queen’s STEAM Institute
- A new entertainment venue
- A luxury hotel and conference center
- Greenspace for public recreation
- Plus an additional $20 million for community initiatives across New York
Former NBA star and Queens native Kenny “The Jet” Smith, now an analyst on NBA Today, praised the development and emphasized the impact of the new Academy.
“Resorts World came to me with a clear goal of fostering tomorrow’s athletes, student-athletes, and leaders both on and off the court,” Smith said. “Their investment in this Academy will help us teach the next generation the nuances of the game… as well as the social, economic, and cultural impact of sports.”
Robert DeSalvio, president of Genting America East, noted that the project is a natural evolution following the success of Resorts World in New York City.
“When we stood here more than a dozen years ago to break ground on Resorts World New York City, our vision extended well beyond that already-ambitious original plan — today, that vision can soon become a reality,” DeSalvio said.
With the collaboration of entertainment icons and community leaders, the expanded Aqueduct Park is poised to become a landmark for economic growth, innovation, and cultural revival in Southeast Queens.
