Mets Owner’s Casino Project in Queens Gets a Boost

Mets owner Steve Cohen found an important legislative ally who has introduced a bill that would allow his Metropolitan Park casino development at Willets Point to use adjacent parking lots by changing the zoning ordinance.

One Step Forward

New York State Senator John Liu recently introduced a bill that would change the zoning designation surrounding the location of a Queens casino spearheaded by Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International from parkland to commercial use. Without the zooming change, the project would be hindered, which is why this legislation is considered critical to its success.

The reclassification of 50 acres of asphalt parking near Mets Stadium would allow the $8 billion casino resort project to commence in its present form. Although the approval process for a project as massive as the Metropolitan Park casino development is contingent on approval from local lawmakers, state legislators must approve any changes to parkland property.

“Because the parking lot is legally parkland, they require state legislation that would allow a gaming facility to be built on that parkland in order to proceed with their application to the state gaming,” Liu said at the bill’s introduction.

Opposition and Political Divide

However, the project and this legislation do not go unopposed, and their passage is far from certain. One notable opponent is State Senator Jessica Ramos, whose district lies squarely within much of the Willets Point site.

“My position has not changed. I cannot support a casino in Corona and am a definite no on any alienation bill that goes against my neighbors’ wishes,” she said in a recent interview.

Community Feedback

Nevertheless, the project does have support from several influential community politicians like Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Assemblywoman Larinda Hooks, and Councilman Francisco Moya. It has also received a warm reception at the City Planning Commission.

But Liu argued that he has received more positive than negative feedback from his constituents in the area and commented on Ramos’ position, saying, “I’m close to Jessica, and I know her principal position is based on feedback for the constituents. Similarly, my intent to advance any enabling legislation is based on feedback I received from constituents. Some opposed, but far more in favor.”

Community Rebirth

Assuming Cohen et al. is awarded one of the three downstate New York casino licenses and all the red tape is satisfied, the project is expected to bring 23,000 union jobs to the area along with a $100 million pledge to construct Flushing Skypark—a High Line experience replete with a pedestrian and bicycle bridge that would connect downtown Flushing and Willets Point.

The project encompasses not only hotels and a casino but also dining spots, concert venues, and transit upgrades, as well as a 25-acre public park for starters. Moreover, an investment of $25 million in community health care investments in Queens, coupled with $163 million for the creation of a Community Impact Fund, is also included in the project’s budget.

“It’s time the world’s greatest borough gets the investment it deserves,” Cohen said in a statement.

“I understand that Flushing Skypark will not be easy to achieve, but if anyone can do it, it would be the Metropolitan Park team,” Liu said at a press conference.