- New York State Senator Jessica Ramos publicly announced her rejection of a casino and entertainment proposal in Queens, New York.
- Steven Cohen’s $8 billion project consisting of blackjack, more gaming, entertainment, hotels, and more venues near Citi Field.
- Cohen and Hard Rock International plan to build a casino next to the New York Mets’ stadium, but Queens being Ramos’s district is a major obstacle for the proposal.
NEW YORK – The massive $8 billion project proposal to bring gambling and more entertainment to Queens, New York came to a stop with Tuesday’s announcement. Senator Jessica Ramos moved to stop the massive casino proposal in her district, likely preventing the addition of blackjack and more gambling next to Citi Field.
The New York Mets’ billionaire owner Steven Cohen shares his vision of a gambling and entertainment space next to Citi Field with Hard Rock International. However, State Senator Jessica Ramos announced she will oppose the casino plans and instead proposed an alienation bill that allows Cohen and Hard Rock to build a convention center and hotel.
“I have drafted an alternative alienation bill that strikes a balance and would allow Mr. Cohen and Hard Rock to build a convention center and hotel, and more than double the proposed open green space,” said Ramos on her X account Tuesday morning. “The parcel in question is in strategic proximity to LaGuardia Airport, and allows for visitors and tourists to feed into our vibrant food scene while addressing the consequence of climate change in the area. Mr. Cohen and Hard Rock would still make a profit, albeit less.”
Ramos, who considers making a run to be mayor of New York next year, wants the investment near Citi Field to be more green space and recreation. Although they don’t agree on New York blackjack, she claims Cohen and his team recognize the potential of the compromise and share a similar love for their community.