In a high-stakes battle for the future of New York City’s entertainment landscape, state Sen. Jessica Ramos faces mounting pressure to back the ambitious “Metropolitan Park” project near Citi Field. The brainchild of Mets owner Steve Cohen, this proposed $8 billion casino and entertainment hub aims to transform the 50-acre asphalt expanse surrounding the stadium into a vibrant destination.
The Proposal: Metropolitan Park
The vision for Metropolitan Park includes a multifaceted complex that combines leisure, gaming, and cultural experiences. Here are the key components:
- Casino: The centerpiece of the project, the casino promises excitement, luxury, and a chance at fortune. With state-of-the-art gaming facilities, it aims to attract visitors from across the city and beyond.
- Hotel: A world-class hotel will provide accommodations for guests, ensuring a seamless experience for those seeking entertainment, relaxation, or business meetings.
- Concert Venue: Music enthusiasts can look forward to a cutting-edge concert venue that hosts top-tier artists and events. From intimate performances to large-scale shows, the venue will cater to diverse tastes.
- Food Hall: Culinary delights await visitors at the food hall, where a variety of cuisines and flavors converge. Whether it’s a quick bite or a leisurely meal, the options will be abundant.
- Public Park: Amid the hustle and bustle, a green oasis will offer respite. The public park will feature lush greenery, walking paths, and recreational spaces for families and individuals.
The Legislative Hurdle
However, before the dream becomes reality, several bureaucratic hurdles must be cleared. One critical step involves the “parkland alienation” bill, which aims to reclassify the massive parking lot around Citi Field. Currently considered parkland, this area needs to be “alienated” by the state to allow for construction.
State Sen. Ramos holds the key to this process. She must decide whether to co-sponsor the bill introduced by Assemblyman Jeffrion Aubry. The clock is ticking, as the legislative session ends in June. Ramos’s decision will significantly impact the fate of Metropolitan Park.
Queens Elected Officials Weigh In
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, local Councilman Francisco Moya, and Assemblyman Aubry have all expressed their support for the project. In a joint letter to Ramos, they emphasized the community’s desire for Metropolitan Park. While Ramos has engaged in town halls to gauge local sentiment, the project’s level of support remains varied.
The Community Advisory Committee
Should the bill move forward, Ramos, Aubry, Richards, and Moya will play pivotal roles. As part of the Community Advisory Committee, they will evaluate Cohen’s casino application. This committee will also include representatives from the mayor’s office and the governor’s team.
The Larger Picture
Metropolitan Park is just one contender in a fierce competition for three casino licenses offered by the state. With approximately ten hopefuls vying for these licenses, the stakes are high. The outcome will shape not only Queens but also the broader landscape of entertainment and tourism in New York City.
