Citi Field Casino in New York Gets Backing from Powerful Legislator
A step forward has been taken in the effort to build a casino near Citi Field in Queens, New York. State Sen. John Liu announced his support for the project that is being led by New York Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:On Sunday, Sen. Liu revealed plans to introduce legislation that would reclassify approximately 50 acres of parking lot space surrounding the Mets stadium from designated parkland to commercial property. This move would pave the way for significant development on the site, including an $8 billion casino and entertainment complex known as Metropolitan Park.
Related: Casino Next to New York's City Field Gets Local ApprovalThe legislative reclassification is critical to the project's viability, as current restrictions on parkland prohibit commercial construction. With Sen. Liu's backing, the proposal gains essential political momentum.
Although Sen. Liu's Senate district borders the area around Citi Field, it does not include the stadium itself. His willingness to introduce this legislation reflects a shift in local political dynamics, especially given previous resistance from lawmakers whose districts encompass the development site.
In exchange for legislative support and as part of a broader effort to integrate the development with surrounding communities, Cohen and Hard Rock have committed to constructing a public infrastructure project called the Flushing Skypark. This elevated pedestrian and bicycle bridge would cross Flushing Creek, creating a connection between downtown Flushing and Willets Point. Inspired by Manhattan's High Line, the Skypark aims to improve community connectivity and encourage alternative transportation methods in the area.
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Sparing No Expense
According to the project's framework, the developers have pledged to fully fund and secure all necessary regulatory approvals for the Flushing Skypark. They are also bound by a legal agreement with the nonprofit Waterfront Alliance. Should the Skypark not be built, Cohen and Hard Rock would be obligated to contribute $100 million toward infrastructure enhancements for Flushing Meadows Corona Park. This financial commitment would be fulfilled through annual payments of $10 million over a ten-year period, offering a guaranteed benefit to the community regardless of the bridge's construction outcome.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards also lent his support to the Metropolitan Park proposal. He described the project as a transformative opportunity for Northwest Queens, highlighting its potential to generate 23,000 union jobs and to deliver much-needed investment to communities such as Corona and Flushing. Richards emphasized the importance of revitalizing historically underserved neighborhoods and welcomed the economic and social potential that the development could unlock.
Despite growing political support, the proposal continues to face opposition from key local figures. Sen. Jessica Ramos, whose district includes Citi Field, has remained opposed to the project. Her refusal over the past year to sponsor the legislation needed for reclassifying the parkland effectively stalled the proposal. Although Sen. Liu's endorsement represents significant progress, Ramos' stance continues to be a substantial obstacle. A request for comment from her office was not immediately returned.
The Citi Field casino plan is one of several high-profile proposals competing for one of three downstate casino licenses that will be awarded by the New York State Gaming Facility Location Board. Other contenders include projects planned for Coney Island, Hudson Yards, and Times Square. The board is expected to finalize its selections by the end of this year.
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