The Senate approved a law letting the city rezone 50 acres of parkland near Citi Field, currently used as parking, for commercial development
A plan to turn the parking areas around Citi Field into a huge entertainment and casino complex, which people have argued about for a long time, has jumped over a big legal hurdle. This happened after a big win in the New York State Senate vote on May 27.
Lawmakers Approve Key Land Change for Cohen’s Queens Casino Project
The Senate passed a law that allows the city to change 50 acres of public parkland next to Citi Field, which is now used for parking, into land for businesses. This change in the law lets New York City move ahead with Mets owner Steve Cohen’s $8 billion Metropolitan Park project, if it can get one of the few casino licenses left for downstate from the New York Gaming Commission.
The planned project, led by Cohen alongside Hard Rock International, aims to turn the paved area into a massive complex. It will have a casino resort, hotels, shops, places to eat, a 25-acre public park, and better infrastructure such as a new walkway and improved transit. Supporters say this project will pour billions into the local economy and create tens of thousands of union jobs.
Despite backing from most Assembly and Senate members — with the Senate voting 54-5 in favor — the plan has faced vocal critics. State Senator Jessica Ramos, who represents Corona and East Elmhurst, stood firm against it. She argued that a casino does not match what her community wants, reported local news outlet The City. She cautioned that these projects often take power away from neighborhoods. Ramos suggested that people in her district were being treated more like spectators than key players in the decision.
Queens Casino Awaits Governor’s Approval Amid Fierce License Battle
Senator John Liu, who introduced the bill, has highlighted the possible economic benefits such as new jobs and funds for infrastructure. He added that even people who doubted it at first now show more support. Assemblymember Larinda Hooks, who helped sponsor the bill, called it a “historic opportunity” to use empty space to help Queens residents.
The approval is a big step, but Metropolitan Park’s future depends on a tough casino license contest. Three licenses are up for grabs, and two might go to places already running.
The Queens project is one of many big-name bids across New York City, including spots in Times Square and Coney Island.
The bill now sits on Governor Kathy Hochul’s desk for her verdict. Her office’s spokesperson said they are looking over the legislation. If Hochul gives it the green light, Cohen and his team will move closer to turning a long-unused stretch of pavement into a standout attraction.
