New York Chinatown fears impact of $8bn casino development, calling it ‘predatory project’
Summary
An $8 billion casino project called Metropolitan Park is planned near Flushing’s Chinatown in Queens, New York. Many local residents and business owners worry the casino will harm their working-class immigrant community by increasing housing costs, encouraging gambling addiction, and forcing small businesses to close.Key Facts
- Metropolitan Park is a casino and entertainment complex planned near Citi Field in Queens.
- The project is backed by Steve Cohen, owner of the New York Mets, and Hard Rock International.
- Local residents fear the casino will displace about 16,000 renters due to rising housing costs.
- Chinese immigrant communities in the area face higher rates of gambling problems.
- Community members say the casino targets vulnerable people with gambling promotions like free meals and vouchers.
- The project includes over $1 billion in community benefits, including funds for addiction and mental health services.
- Local organizations have agreements to provide culturally sensitive support for gambling addiction.
- The city planning commission approved the project’s environmental impact study, stating no direct displacement of businesses or residents will occur.
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