The bill specifically calls for “a gaming facility and, in conjunction with such facility, commercial, retail, entertainment, recreational, hotel, convention, and or community facility uses.”
But before Cohen’s extra parking space can be turned into a new gambling and entertainment center, there must be a change to state laws.
The lot and surrounding areas are technically considered as New York parkland as part of the Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, which means that the state either needs to replace the 20 acres with new park space or significantly redevelop existing areas. If the latter is chosen, New Green Willets, LLC, a group formed by Cohen in 2022 to lead the charge for the new casino, would also pay for the revamp of the park.
Cohen and his team have already held several community events to discuss how locals would feel about a new casino and how they could build one without ruining the game-day experience.
“Cohen and his team are committed to delivering a vision with dedicated green space, year-round entertainment and good-paying local jobs,” said spokeswoman Maria Comella. “We are supportive of efforts to create a process that does this the right way and makes it possible to expand use of the area beyond just parking lots.”
Donovan Richards, the Queens borough president, and Aubry have already held several meetings with Cohen to hear his plans for the casino build and are on board with his vision.
Other policymakers, however, are not yet voicing support. Local senator, Jessica Ramos, was noncommittal when addressing the idea.
“I have yet to review the legislation in full,” Ramos said in a statement. “Clearly, I need to have conversations with my colleagues to ensure that whatever is introduced reflects our shared goals of prioritizing community input.”
