Summary
- 70% of individuals polled agree something new should go on the site.
- 18% believe the property should remain asphalt.
- Support for the proposal increased after more details of the project were revealed.
Shoen Cooperman Research spent all last month polling individuals in the Queens area about a plan for a casino next to Citi Field, the home of the NY Mets. The poll results were revealed this week, showing this project has support. Most of the New York Casino plans are up against opposition due to varying factors such as fear of increased traffic or crime.
Results of the Poll
The study showed that 70% of those questioned feel something new needs to be done in the area, while 18% want it to remain concrete. Overall support for the casino came in at 78% as more details were provided on what the property would offer. The project would include a casino, hotel, food hall, green space, and connections for the Flushing Bay waterfront.
Around 68% were more likely to support the casino project since it would help spur the local economy. People would be drawn to the area year-round, which would help local businesses. The poll was started by New Green Willets, a lobbying group in favor of the plan.
Engaging the Local Community
Steve Cohen, the owner of the Mets, and the New Green Willets group have made headway with the community after announcing the casino project. An effort has been made to engage with the local communities near Citi Field and educate them about what the casino property would entail.
Over 200 meetings have been held with community leaders, and over a dozen workshops and visioning sessions have occurred. Keeping locals in the know has helped to create a positive impact on the perception of the New York casino by the locals. The workshops actually made residents excited about the plan and more willing to support it.
Locals feel that if the casino is to succeed, then the property needs to bring in people year-round, not just when the New York Mets play. Other options, like a live music venue included in the plans plus restaurants, will help draw in visitors every day.
While the plan for Citi Field has support, there is one issue. Around 50 acres of the property sit on parkland. Legislation allows a casino to go on parklands, but the land must be replaced with 20 acres of park area somewhere else.
If the Citi Field project moves forward, developers must figure out where they will add more parkland nearby. This subject will most likely come to the forefront if the project is given a gaming license.
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