Posted on: September 23, 2024, 02:31h.
Last updated on: September 23, 2024, 02:31h.
Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International recently revealed plans for the proposed “Metropolitan Park” project, which includes a casino hotel near Citi Field in Queens, NY.
The release of the Metropolitan Park sketches came after State Sen. Jessica Ramos (D-Queens) declined to endorse legislation altering the Willets Point parkland status, a crucial step towards converting the area near the New York Mets stadium into a gaming destination.
Over the past three years, New York Mets owner Steve Cohen and his associates have been attentive to community feedback. Following 16 workshops and discussions with thousands of residents, the primary community needs identified were job opportunities and open green spaces. It is now time for the 50 acres of asphalt near Citi Field to be transformed into lush greenery,” as stated by Hard Rock.
The Cohen/Hard Rock proposal allocates 25 acres for public parkland, featuring athletic fields, dining amenities, a live music venue, improved cycling access, roads, and a $163 million community impact fund. The casino resort managed by Hard Rock will be the centerpiece of the Metropolitan Park project.
Grand Visions for Queens Casino
Despite previous development setbacks, Willets Point has remained largely undeveloped, but Cohen is presenting ambitious ideas for the area.
“The design of the 25-acre park, crafted by local architecture firms SHoP Architects (Domino Park) and Field Ops (The High Line, Domino Park), incorporates input from 15 community workshops, numerous meetings with local leaders, and over 20,000 conversations with neighbors,” according to the Metropolitan Park website. “It also pays tribute to the iconic World’s Fair history and architecture of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, as well as the rich history of the Mets, Shea Stadium, and Citi Field.”
In addition to the commitment to green spaces, the Metropolitan Park plan includes infrastructure improvements such as the renovation of the Mets-Willets Point 7 Train station.
As with other downstate casino proposals, the Metropolitan Park project comes with a significant job creation promise, with backers pledging 23,000 permanent and temporary positions.
Political Landscape of Queens Casino
Ramos’ decision not to support the parkland legislation poses a challenge to the Queens casino initiative, but it is not insurmountable.
While Ramos represents the district containing Willets Point, any state Senator could introduce a bill to change the parkland classification of the property. This indicates a glimmer of hope for Metropolitan Park supporters, especially as New York officials delay the bidding process for the three downstate casino permits.
State Rep. Jeff Aubry (D-Queens) introduced a related bill in the New York Assembly last year, but companion legislation is necessary to move the bill forward.