Steve Cohen Gains Support for $8B “Metropolitan Park” Casino Project, Pressuring State Sen. Ramos

Title: Steve Cohen’s “Metropolitan Park” Casino Project Gains Support in Queens

Introduction:
Mets owner Steve Cohen is seeking support from State Senator Jessica Ramos to re-designate the property around Citi Field in Queens for commercial use. This move would allow Cohen to bid on his $8 billion “Metropolitan Park” casino complex project. Despite initial resistance from Ramos, Cohen gathered the backing of 100 civic leaders, small business owners, and residents in an effort to sway her decision. The rally took place near Ramos’ district office, emphasizing the importance of the project to the local community.

Supporters Advocate for the Metropolitan Park Project:
Approximately 100 people gathered at Diversity Plaza in Queens to voice their support for the Metropolitan Park project. The rally featured various speakers advocating for the casino complex, highlighting its potential to generate job opportunities and entertainment for Queens residents. Parishioners from the First Baptist Church of Corona expressed their belief that the project would bring significant benefits to the community.

Generating Generational Wealth and Entertainment Options:
Dwight Young, a young resident of East Elmhurst, emphasized that the casino plan could provide opportunities for young people to build generational wealth. He highlighted the lack of job opportunities in the community and expressed his hope that the project would change that. Valerie Young, Dwight’s mother, emphasized the need for entertainment options within Queens and the importance of generating sustainability and jobs for the local community.

Uniting People and Bringing Opportunities:
Eddie Valentin, owner of an LGBTQ bar, praised the Metropolitan Park project as a transformative endeavor. He emphasized that the project would not only beautify the area but also unite people through concerts, hotels, and a better Flushing Meadow Park. Valentin questioned why residents had to travel to other boroughs or counties for entertainment events and expressed his desire for a local venue accessible via the number 7 train.

Ramos Responds and Other Officials Support the Casino Project:
When asked about Cohen’s efforts to gain support for his casino bid, Ramos acknowledged his actions but focused on her responsibility to represent her constituents in Albany. Despite her reservations, other Queens officials, including Councilman Francisco Moya, Assemblyman Jeffry Aubry, and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, have expressed their support for the project. An anonymous political insider highlighted the financial benefits of the project and suggested that losing an $8 billion development opportunity would be unreasonable.

The Metropolitan Park Project and Other Casino Plans:
Cohen’s proposed Metropolitan Park project entails a casino complex operated in partnership with Hard Rock International. In addition to the casino, it promises 20 acres of green space and access to Flushing Bay. However, Cohen faces competition from other casino plans, including Genting Resorts World New York, which plans to expand its existing facility near Aqueduct Race Track. Various other casino projects are also being considered in different locations throughout New York City.

Conclusion:
With the backing of civic leaders, small business owners, and residents, Steve Cohen’s Metropolitan Park casino project in Queens is gaining momentum. Supporters highlight the potential for job creation, entertainment options, and the opportunity to generate generational wealth within the community. While State Senator Jessica Ramos remains hesitant, other Queens officials have pledged their support. As the casino licensing process progresses, it remains to be seen how Cohen’s project will fare against competing proposals throughout New York City.