{"id":8262,"date":"2024-11-26T07:27:16","date_gmt":"2024-11-26T07:27:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/slategray-wallaby-310340.hostingersite.com\/index.php\/2024\/11\/26\/queens-boards-approve-steve-cohens-8b-metropolitan-park-casino-plan\/"},"modified":"2024-11-26T07:27:16","modified_gmt":"2024-11-26T07:27:16","slug":"queens-boards-approve-steve-cohens-8b-metropolitan-park-casino-plan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/casino-online-best.com\/index.php\/2024\/11\/26\/queens-boards-approve-steve-cohens-8b-metropolitan-park-casino-plan\/","title":{"rendered":"Queens Boards Approve Steve Cohen\u2019s $8B Metropolitan Park Casino Plan"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The $8 billion plan by New York Mets owner Steve Cohen to develop 50 acres of the parking lot next to Citi Field into a massive casino, hotel, and entertainment complex has advanced significantly. All five Queens borough community boards have unanimously approved the plan, which is called Metropolitan Park. In addition to green spaces and leisure places, Cohen has joined with Hard Rock International to create a casino as the main attraction of the new property.<\/p>\n

Long Road Ahead for Approval<\/h2>\n

While community backing has been strong, Metropolitan Park still faces numerous hurdles. Cohen\u2019s chief of staff, Michael Sullivan, presented the plan to the local community boards, with notable support from former councilmembers and residents. However, environmental advocates like Guardians of Flushing Bay have voiced opposition to the project, citing concerns about the parkland.<\/p>\n

The proposal now needs further approval from Queens borough president Donovan Richards, who has expressed his support, as well as from the New York City Planning Commission and City Council. A local community advisory committee will review the project next year. One of the most significant challenges is the need for a parkland alienation bill. This bill is required to change the zoning status of the land from parkland to commercial use. Despite Cohen\u2019s efforts, State Senator Jessica Ramos has not introduced this crucial bill.<\/p>\n

The Metropolitan Park project is expected to bring substantial changes to the area. The development would feature a Hard Rock casino, a hotel, a music venue, and 25 acres of green space, including athletic fields, bike paths, and improved transit facilities. Additionally, the project plans a \u201cTaste of Queens Food Hall\u201d and a concert venue to attract visitors.<\/p>\n

Cohen has committed to a significant community benefits package, pledging $1 billion in support. This includes funding for a health clinic, a youth and senior center, and addiction services. \u201cWe are committed to supporting responsible gaming and improving services for youth and seniors in the community,\u201d<\/em> Cohen stated.<\/p>\n

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