#United States #Queens #Metropolitan Park #Hard Rock International #Steve Cohen

Metropolitan Park: A New Era for New York

The New York State Gaming Commission has officially granted a gaming license to Metropolitan Park, a visionary project spearheaded by Hard Rock International and New York Mets owner Steve Cohen. This ambitious undertaking involves converting 50 acres of asphalt around Citi Field into a vibrant sports and entertainment destination, marking a significant milestone for both the local community and the state.

A Vision for Transformation

Metropolitan Park is poised to become an iconic hub for entertainment, food, and culture, harmoniously reflecting the diversity and spirit of Queens. This project aims not only to enhance the local landscape but also to provide substantial economic benefits to the community. It is set to create 23,000 well-paying union jobs and contribute over $1.75 billion towards community enhancements.

Steve Cohen has expressed his commitment to improving the area around Citi Field since taking ownership of the Mets. He noted, "Our fans and the community have expressed a desire for a better environment. This project will fulfill that need, delivering a first-class sports and entertainment district that everyone can enjoy."

Community Engagement and Support

The conception of Metropolitan Park is a product of extensive community involvement, marked by over three years of dedicated outreach, with 16 public workshops and more than 1,000 stakeholder meetings conducted. Garnering the backing of various community boards, the project showcases a blueprint molded by public input, ensuring it puts the community first.

The approval process for this project has been thorough, with unanimous support from the Community Advisory Committee and substantial endorsements from local government organizations. The positive response reflects a collective hope for the transformative potential of Metropolitan Park.

A Premier Entertainment Destination

Planned to feature year-round entertainment offerings, Metropolitan Park will include a Hard Rock hotel, a casino and sportsbook, restaurants, bars, and shopping facilities, encapsulating diverse cultural experiences. A standout feature will be the 'Taste of Queens,' a food hall that celebrates Queens' culinary scene, enhancing the project's appeal.

Significantly, this development will provide a variety of amenities that cater to all ages, including a 5,650-capacity performance venue aimed at hosting a multitude of events and concerts throughout the year.

Economic Benefits and Job Creation

Projected to generate billions in tax revenue, Metropolitan Park is set to be a catalyst for regional economic growth. The initiative emphasizes local community involvement through its Queens-first hiring initiative, ensuring that residents have access to the new job opportunities created by the project.

Moreover, this initiative will enact a first-of-its-kind lending program targeted at minority and women-owned businesses, lowering barriers for these enterprises and encouraging their growth and sustainability within the community.

Connecting Communities and Improving Infrastructure

Beyond being just a representation of recreational and entertainment choices, Metropolitan Park aims to connect and revitalize the areas surrounding it, which have long been neglected. The project includes a complete makeover of the Mets-Willets Point 7 Train station, enhancing accessibility and integrating the park with surrounding neighborhoods.

Plans to improve local roads, pedestrian paths, and cycling routes underscore a commitment to making transportation more efficient for both residents and visitors. The addition of nearly 11,000 feet of bike lanes signals a push for sustainable transit options, reducing reliance on cars and enhancing connectivity.

Addressing Housing Needs

Metropolitan Park also focuses on addressing the critical issue of housing affordability. By partnering with local organizations, the project aims to develop a 450-unit all-affordable housing project, tackling the unmet housing necessities prevalent in the area. This initiative echoes the broader goal of ensuring that the benefits of redevelopment truly reach the local community.

Conclusion

Metropolitan Park is not merely a transformative real estate project; it embodies a strategic shift in urban planning that emphasizes community enhancement, engagement, and economic vitality. With significant investment in infrastructure, public spaces, and community resources, Metropolitan Park stands as a testament to New York’s commitment to providing world-class entertainment while prioritizing the needs and voices of its communities.