Hundreds line up for first public hearing on Coney Island casino
Nearly 100 of them stood in line to address the developers and committee, offering their thoughts on a possible casino in the area.
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The first public hearing held by the Coney Community Advisory Committee drew in a packed room of community members.
Nearly 100 of them stood in line to address the developers and committee, offering their thoughts on a possible casino in the area.
A brief presentation on ‘The Coney’ laid out most of their plans, despite multiple disruptions from the crowds.
The casino hotel would feature convention space, retail stores, 20 world-class restaurants, entertainment venues and nearly $5,000 permanent jobs to a community with 17% unemployment.
“Coney Island is very seasonal,” said Peter McEneaney, executive vice president at Thor Equities. “And the ability to create year-round activity there is the No. 1 thing we’ve heard from many people in the community.”
Community members were divided on their stance of the project.
Many are not convinced that promises made will be a reality. Others are fighting to give developers a chance.
At least one thing they seem to all want was something better for the community that already exists.
Developers say they even plan to invest $200 million toward a community trust fund.
A second public hearing will be held in September to give a chance to working residents to participate — before a final vote is made.
