What is Empire City?
Empire City, officially known as Yonkers Raceway’s Empire City Casino at Yonkers Greyhound Park, is a gaming venue located in Yonkers, New York, United States. The facility operates under the license here of the New York State Racing and Wagering Board (NYRWB) and has been operating since 2006.
History and Background
Prior to its current form as Empire City Casino, the site was originally known as the Empire City Racetrack. Inaugurated in 1890, it operated until 1977 when it closed due to declining attendance. The property changed hands several times before being acquired by Yonkers Racing Corporation (YRC) in 1993. YRC invested heavily in renovations and reopened the track as a thoroughbred racing venue.
However, with the decline of traditional horse racing in the state, Empire City Racetrack shifted its focus towards greyhound racing. In 2012, the racetrack transitioned to exclusively hosting dog racing events under the name Empire City Casino at Yonkers Greyhound Park. This rebranding aligned with a larger effort by New York State and local governments to revitalize and repurpose older gaming facilities.
Gaming Operations
As of today, Empire City operates as one of only two commercial casino properties in downstate Westchester County. The casino area features over 5,200 slots and video lottery terminals (VLTs), offering a diverse range of games such as classic reels, progressive jackpots, and more contemporary digital titles like sports betting and iGaming options.
Additionally, the site offers about 65 table games including poker varieties, roulette, craps, blackjack, baccarat, etc. Their gaming offerings adhere to strict New York State Gaming Commission regulations governing all commercial casinos in the state.
Non-Gaming Activities
While gambling remains a major draw for visitors, Empire City also incorporates amenities catering towards relaxation and entertainment beyond traditional betting. Notably:
- Dining options: With two dining venues on-site – including the upscale restaurant 5D Grill Steak House & Wine Bar – guests can enjoy an array of international cuisine.
- Accommodations: For those seeking extended visits or overnight stays, Empire City collaborates with local hotels to provide lodging packages and promotions.
- Entertainment: Live music performances occur throughout various sections of the venue; patrons may also participate in interactive activities like Trivia Nights or watch sports events.
Demographics & Marketing Strategy
Empire City’s strategic marketing efforts aim at attracting a wide range of visitors from across metropolitan New York. Geographically targeted advertising includes online media campaigns, local press outlets, social networking platforms and radio sponsorships tailored towards the densely populated Westchester County market – specifically catering to potential customers interested in entertainment venues with gaming opportunities.
By diversifying its offerings through live performances, dining options, and a comprehensive range of electronic games, Empire City expands its appeal beyond traditional gaming enthusiasts. This broad-based approach allows management to capitalize on varying interests within an often saturated local competitive landscape while targeting growing demand for integrated entertainment and hospitality experiences.
State & Regional Influence
Since becoming one of New York’s first operational casinos after state-wide regulatory adjustments allowed expanded gaming opportunities, Empire City serves as a case study in both the benefits and challenges associated with commercial casino expansion. As part of its larger strategic positioning within regional markets – including Westchester County’s evolving economic landscape and ongoing efforts towards responsible gaming practices – Empire City maintains close relationships with government agencies, advocacy groups focused on responsible gambling and community development initiatives to further develop the property.
Revenue Contribution & Impact
With annual revenues exceeding $230 million in some years since opening its casino area (pre-COVID pandemic data), Empire City’s success serves as a model for possible economic growth potential surrounding other revitalized gaming facilities within New York State. This positive trend supports the notion that, under proper regulation and management, expanded gaming can contribute substantially to regional tax revenues.
Moreover, local job market creation directly benefits from increased foot traffic – especially during periods of high demand due to limited supply capacity in the immediate region – offering an additional example of how casino operations enhance community viability beyond fiscal metrics alone.