Jake’s 58 Casino Hotel on Long Island in New York is in the midst of a $210 million renovation and expansion project, with construction on the resort’s new structure in Islandia expected to commence shortly. 

Jake’s 58 is starting its next phase as new rivals are poised to enter the scene in the upcoming years with three integrated resort casinos in the downstate area. Although Suffolk Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. (Suffolk OTB), the owner of Jake’s, is not competing for any of the three comprehensive casino licenses that permit slot machines, live dealer table games, and sports betting, the firm is making a significant investment to strengthen Jake’s status in the New York gaming industry. 

Suffolk OTB President and CEO Phil Boyle states that the investment aims to draw in new visitors to the facility.

"Once completed, the expansion will allow us to host corporate outings, conventions, trade shows, and musical events,” Boyle told Long Island Business News. “For example, I think Jake’s 58 will become the perfect venue for first responders to host their installation dinners. The possibilities are endless.”

Jake’s runs video lottery terminals (VLTs) similar to slots via a central lottery system overseen by the New York Gaming Commission (NYGC). The 11 VLT casinos across the state retain approximately 46% of the machines’ total revenue and allocate 44% to the state for K-12 public education. The last 10% is designated for gaming suppliers and the management of the central video lottery system. 

Growth Characteristics 

Suffolk’s $210 million investment will ensure that all 210 guestrooms of the hotel receive a crucial renovation. The existing casino, located within what used to be the lobby of a Marriott hotel, is undergoing renovations. 

The construction project starting this week involves building a 110,500-square-foot structure right behind the established hotel. The linked structure will enlarge the casino area to increase the VLT positions from 1,000 to 2,000, doubling their number. The new gaming zone will additionally include a 17,500-square-foot VIP lounge and entertainment space. 

Approximately 3,500 square feet will be set aside for weddings, parties, and additional events. The plan includes a food court with 200 seats. 

In addition to the structure, Suffolk is funding a 3.5-story parking garage that will hold up to 500 cars. Parking has been a problem at Jake’s, which presently offers only surface parking areas. During peak times, customers, many of whom are senior citizens, have to travel long distances to get to the casino. 

The new facilities are set to be completed in the first quarter of 2026. After the enlarged casino begins operations, it's anticipated that nearby residents will have their property taxes removed. Jake’s has committed to increasing its yearly contribution to the local Islandia government from $2.25 million to $4.25 million. 

Sportsbook Appeal 

While Jake isn't seeking full casino privileges, Boyle believes that state legislators in Albany ought to broaden sports betting to include VLT facilities, racinos, and off-track betting locations.

"There are three million people on Long Island and no sportsbook,” Boyle said.

Sports bettors on Long Island can’t visit a physical sportsbook without heading upstate, at least until the three downstate casinos launch, yet New York does have legal online sportsbooks.