New York State Assembly approves bill to allow Queens casino project
The legislation allows parkland to be rezoned for development.
US.- The New York State Assembly has approved legislation to rezone parkland for development. The bill, passed in a 138-7 vote, would allow New York Mets owner Steve Cohen’s proposed $8bn casino resort to be built at Citi Field ballpark in Queens. Cohen and Hard Rock International will first have to gain one of three casino licences to be granted for downtown New York.
The bill, introduced by state senator John Liu proposed the redesignaton of 50 acres of parking space around the Queens baseball stadium from parkland to commercial use.
According to the New York Post, Assemblywoman Larinda Hooks (D-Queen), the bill’s sponsor said before voting: “This is the opportunity to bring real investment to our local economy, having the bold vision of turning 50 acres of asphalt into an entity that delivers real benefits.”
Plans for the project include the Flushing Skypark, a High Line-inspired pedestrian and bicycle bridge that would span Flushing Creek, connecting downtown Flushing and Willets Point. Cohen is also offering to fund $100m toward the project.
