Article Published on: October 21, 2024, 02:06h.
Last Updated on: October 21, 2024, 02:06h.
Preserve the High Line, a group dedicated to protecting the West Side Manhattan neighborhood of the same name, has reported that a large majority of local residents are against a proposed casino hotel development by Related Cos. and Wynn Resorts in the area.
According to a September survey by Public Policy Polling, Protect the High Line revealed that less than a quarter of West Side residents support Related’s proposed $12 billion Hudson Rail Yards expansion, which could potentially include a Wynn casino.
56% of respondents are against the proposed zoning changes for the Hudson Yards expansion over the Western Rail Yards, while only 24% favor it,” stated the opposition group, referring to the survey results. “70% agree that the proposed skyscrapers and casino near the northern section of the High Line would negatively impact surrounding West Side communities.
The survey was conducted among 1,300 residents in and around the High Line neighborhood.
Wynn NY Casino Poses a Challenge to 2009 Agreement
In 2009, Related entered into an agreement with the city outlining a commitment to construct between 3,454 and 5,700 housing units when developing the Western Rail Yards. However, in the current proposal, which includes the Wynn casino, only 1,500 residences are planned.
Protect The High Line alleges that the real estate developer is seeking to modify a 2009 agreement with the city, potentially leading to obstructed views and significantly fewer residential housing units than originally promised.
This change has stirred criticism among politicians representing the High Line area and adjacent districts, prompting additional opposition from various groups.
“Over 3,000 local residents have already joined the Protect the High Line campaign. Community leaders, such as Sally Greenspan, president of the Council of Chelsea Block Associations (CCBA), have expressed concerns about the drastic reduction in housing units,” Protect The High Line stated.
Resistance to New York City-area casinos is not unique to the Related/Wynn proposal. It has become a common theme among the numerous contenders vying for the three downstate licenses yet to be awarded by the state.
Political Ramifications in Wynn NY Casino Initiative
As mentioned earlier, local politicians representing the High Line and nearby areas are opposed to the Related/Wynn plan, a sentiment supported by polling data. The region is predominantly Democratic in one of the most liberal cities in the US, with many voters disapproving of the proposed project by Related and Wynn.
“The polling reflects broad discontent, particularly among Democratic voters, who oppose the rezoning changes by 57% to 22%,” added Protect The High Line.
Further complicating matters is the fact that 2025 is a mayoral election year in New York City. Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams (D) is expected to seek re-election, but could face primary challenges from within his own party, with some contenders not in favor of the various casino plans in the city.