CEO still wants casino near NYC after Taj Mahal purchase

owlands (track) and we are 100 percent still on board to do that project at the Meadowlands,” Allen said.

The company has partnered with track owner Jeff Gural to propose a casino resort just outside New York City that analysts predict could become one of the most successful casinos in the nation — at least until New York City allows one or more casinos to open nearby.

But before that happens, New Jersey voters would have to change a law that currently restricts casinos to Atlantic City. A statewide referendum on it last November was rejected by more than 80 percent of voters, and it cannot be reconsidered for at least two years.

Gural said Hard Rock’s purchase of the Taj Mahal could boost the duo’s chances for a Meadowlands casino.

“I think it can only help us down the road at the Meadowlands because I am sure the politicians and local leaders are appreciative that Hard Rock stepped up to buy (the Taj Mahal) and reopen it as opposed to leaving closed or tearing it down,” Gural said.

When it reopens next year, the casino’s Indian theme with its domes and spires will be gone, replaced by Hard Rock’s signature music theme. The company says it has the world’s largest collection of music memorabilia, which is on display at Hard Rock cafes and casinos around the world.

About 3,000 workers will be hired, including many who lost their jobs when Icahn closed the casino in Oc- tober amid a crippling strike by Local 54 of the Unite-HERE union.

“Our members sacrificed much at this property, but we never wavered in our core belief that workers deserve a good quality job, not simply any job,” said union president Bob McDevitt.

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie took credit for at least part of the Taj Mahal sale, saying the state’s takeover of Atlantic City’s finances, assets and major decision-making power is paying dividends.

“There is no doubt that this purchase was encouraged by our efforts to stabilize the finances of the city government,” the Republican governor and former presidential candidate said.