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Trade Unions Say Yes to Times Square Casino

Major labor unions have thrown their support around the key players looking to score a coveted casino license in Times Square.

While the support from the trade unions is a significant boost for the Times Square casino plans, it's also likely to further inflame tensions with community groups who are staunchly opposed to the project.

The Hotel Trades Council, which represents over 40,000 workers in the New York City hospitality industry, has endorsed the bid by SL Green Realty Corp. and Caesars Entertainment Inc. to build a casino in Times Square.

The Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York, which represents 100,000 workers in the construction industry, has also endorsed the SL Green/Caesars bid.

The support from the trade unions is a major boost for the casino plans, as they represent a powerful constituency with a significant stake in the project. However, it's also likely to further inflame tensions with community groups who are staunchly opposed to the casino.

Community groups have raised concerns about the casino's potential negative impact on the neighborhood, including increased traffic, noise, and crime. They have also argued that the casino would be a blight on the Times Square area, which is home to many historic theaters and other cultural institutions.

The casino developers have said that they will take steps to mitigate the casino's potential negative impacts, and that the project will create jobs and boost the local economy.

The city's Landmarks Preservation Commission is currently reviewing the casino plans, and is expected to make a decision on whether to approve them later this year.

Conclusion

The battle over the Times Square casino is a high-stakes one, with both sides making strong arguments. The outcome of the battle will have a major impact on the future of Times Square, and will likely set a precedent for future casino development in New York City.