Published on: December 13, 2024, 03:16h.
Last updated on: December 13, 2024, 03:16h.
A decision was made by a New York community board committee to reject zoning changes needed for Related Cos. to proceed with a $12 billion development of the Western Rail Yards at Hudson Yards, which includes a planned casino hotel to be run by Wynn Resorts.
Manhattan Community Board 4’s Land Use Committee unanimously voted against allowing zoning changes for a mostly commercial development at Hudson Yards on Wednesday. Concerns have been raised by the board about the project, with locals unlikely to support a gaming establishment in their area.
The objections to the Related/Wynn project increased when it was disclosed by the real estate developer that the $12 billion project would only include just over 1,500 residential units, much fewer than the 5,762 residences stipulated in Related’s 2009 agreement with the city.
The committee will present its findings to the full board soon, and while the board’s stance on the Related/Wynn project is advisory, it could influence New York regulators considering bids for the three downstate casino licenses expected to be granted in late 2025.
Committee’s Opinion on Wynn Casino Criticized, Supported
Like many downstate casino proposals, the Wynn New York plan has both advocates and detractors. One of the prominent opponents is the Friends of the High Line, a group aiming to safeguard the famous New York park of the same name.
Alan van Capelle, executive director of Friends of the High Line, stated, “The discussion and vote by MCB4 underscore the importance of considering the vast potential for public-minded development at the Western Rail Yards site and adjacent Javits Convention Center parking lot. The High Line is committed to engaging in a community-led process to achieve the objectives highlighted by the committee: prioritizing housing in a well-designed urban setting, while preserving the High Line experience.”
Friends of the High Line argues that Related’s plan to make the Hudson Yards development more commercial could obstruct views of the High Line park, as up to three towers, one branded with Wynn, could be erected on the property if approved.
In contrast, labor organizations voiced their support for the Related proposal to MCB4, as it could generate numerous jobs and stimulate the local economy. Related and Wynn previously mentioned that their project would benefit the local economy by creating 35,000 construction jobs and 5,000 permanent union positions if the casino is approved.
Related Seeks to Avoid ‘Amazon Two’ Situation
At the committee meeting, Related CEO Jeff Blau urged members not to miss the opportunity, highlighting potential parallels with New York’s unsuccessful attempt to secure Amazon’s second headquarters in 2019.
Blau said, “This is a chance to make a significant change for New York City, a once-in-a-lifetime transformation. Let’s not repeat the Amazon scenario.” Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) led the opposition to the Amazon campus, but even members of her own party, including former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, regretted missing out on 25,000 jobs when Amazon decided against establishing a second headquarters there.
Opponents of the Related/Wynn project acknowledge that casinos will be built in New York City and jobs will be created, but they oppose having a gaming establishment in their vicinity. Some Wynn investors advocate for the company to expand in the US leveraging its brand, with New York identified as a prime market for such a move. Wynn’s existing properties in the US are located in Las Vegas and Boston.