The New York City Council approved the Coney Island rezoning plan on June 30th, paving the way for the proposed casino project. This decision allows developers to demolish sections of Bowery Street next to Luna Park and purchase air rights above existing buildings to construct three high-rise buildings and two pedestrian bridges. The project was ultimately passed with 36 votes in favor and 11 votes against.
Led by Joe Sitt of Thor Equities, the development team behind the project named The Coney is still vying for one of the three casino licenses in the Lower New York State. Eight casino applicants, including The Coney, submitted their applications to the State Gaming Facility Location Board last week, with the final decision expected before the end of the year. Each proposal must undergo review by the local Community Advisory Committee (CAC) and a final vote by September 30th. The committee is composed of members appointed by six local officials, requiring a two-thirds majority for submission to the state government for consideration.
Councilman Justin Brannan, representing the Coney Island area, voted in favor of the project but emphasized that its success is not solely dependent on him. He stated that it is necessary for all stakeholders to voice their opinions through the CAC process, leading to a collective decision by all elected officials.
However, the Coney Island community remains deeply divided over the project. Community Board 13 (CB13) overwhelmingly opposed the rezoning in January, while Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso conditionally supported it in March. Councilwoman Inna Vernikov, representing parts of Coney Island and Brighton Beach, voted against the project, stating that the majority of community members do not want to see a casino in Coney Island.
The Coney team highlights that the project will bring 4,000 union construction jobs, 4,500 permanent positions, a $200 million community trust fund, and $15 million annually to support emergency services.
According to the development plans, if the license is granted, The Coney will construct three high-rise towers ranging in height from 153 to 402 feet, connected by pedestrian bridges to Stillwell Avenue and West 12th Street. The overall casino development spans over 1.3 million square feet, featuring a 500-room hotel, conference center, retail spaces, and 1,500 parking spaces while preserving the local amusement park, Luna Park, and Ferris wheel.
If the casino license is not ultimately approved, the rezoning will automatically expire, and developers will not be able to construct any non-casino buildings under this plan.
Two years ago in June 2023, The Coney team presented the development plan to leaders of the Brooklyn Chinatown community at the Golden Palace Restaurant. Several community leaders expressed support or opposition, with Mr. Shiguangyi of the American Changle Alliance pointing out that the casino is over two hundred streets away from Brooklyn Chinatown and the job opportunities it creates often require proficiency in English, which may disadvantage first-generation immigrants. He emphasized the need for the focus to be on “how much tangible resources the community can obtain.”
In this week’s city council vote, Councilwoman Sandy Chong from the 43rd District of Brooklyn abstained. She mentioned that while she does not support the casino, she respects the district council members’ authority over local affairs.