Wynn and Related Companies' $12 billion Manhattan casino project faces significant opposition after Manhattan Community Board 4 (MCB4) unanimously rejected required zoning changes for the Upper West Side development.

The proposed Western Yards development would feature three towers, including a three-million-square-foot Wynn-branded structure. However, the plan significantly reduces previously agreed-upon residential housing units from 5,762 to approximately 1,500 units.

While MCB4's vote is non-binding, it reflects strong local opposition, particularly from Friends of the High Line, whose executive director Alan Van Capelle urged Related to withdraw its application and pursue a community-led development approach.

Key concerns include:

• Deviation from the 2009 agreement prioritizing residential development
• Reduced affordable housing units
• Potential obstruction of High Line park views
• Local resistance to casino development

The project is one of 11 proposals competing for three downstate New York casino licenses, with final decisions expected from the New York State Gaming Commission in late 2025. The opposition reflects a broader pattern of NIMBY (not-in-my-backyard) resistance facing casino developments across New York City.

Friends of the High Line reported nearly 6,000 supporters opposing the rezoning application, with 3,500 signing a petition specifically to protect the High Line park area.

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