New York – The development project of “Metropolitan Park”, led by New York Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International, including a casino, successfully passed the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) vote on September 30 with all 6 votes in favor. This project marks the fourth to pass local scrutiny and advance to the final stage for a New York state gaming license.
The $8 billion development proposal aims to transform approximately 50 acres of parking lots around Citi Field into a multifunctional facility combining entertainment, commercial spaces, and public areas. The planned features include a Hard Rock branded hotel, a casino, sports betting, retail stores, dining facilities, conference spaces, and a 5,650-seat performance theater called “Hard Rock Live Metropolitan Park”.
Additionally, Hard Rock International will collaborate with renowned food group Major Food Group and celebrity chef Mario Carbone to introduce gourmet experiences. They will also establish a permanent market called “Taste of Queens” and improve subway stations and surrounding transportation facilities.
The New York State Gaming Facility Location Board is expected to select up to three winning bids from the four projects by the end of December, granting operational licenses for the downstate casinos.
During a meeting held at Queens Borough Hall on Tuesday, all 6 CAC members voted in favor of the project, including State Assemblywoman Larinda Hooks, City Councilman Francisco Moya, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, and members appointed by Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul.
Despite State Senator Ramos’ long-standing opposition to the comprehensive development plan in the area, the committee members she appointed ultimately voted in favor of the project.
President Richards emphasized the complementary nature of the “Metropolitan Park” development with the ongoing construction of the Willetts Point soccer field, anticipating it will drive development in Queens and expressing eagerness for the project’s potential.
A spokesperson for the “Metropolitan Park” development, Karl Rickett, released a statement noting the unanimous approval from the CAC as a demonstration of broad support for the project, representing an important step towards realizing the vision of a community-centered “Metropolitan Park” project.
While the CAC unanimously approved the integrated development project, some local organizations in Flushing have long opposed the casino plans. Ning Zishun, a representative from the Flushing Workers Center, voiced concerns, stating the CAC’s approval of billionaire Cohen’s casino project disregards community opposition. Despite most casino proposals in other communities being rejected, this particular project was pushed through by the committee.
The Flushing Workers Center announced a joint community gathering with various ethnic groups scheduled for October 19th (Sunday) at 3:00 p.m. at the Muslim Center in Flushing to publicly oppose the establishment of a casino in Flushing.