Community District
Find the planning projects in your community district.
All Projects
- 125th Street Corridor
- 2nd Avenue Subway
- 421-a tax incentive program
- 980 Madison Tower
- Access to the Region's Core (ARC)
- Albee Square Mall Tower
- Atlantic Yards
- Bayside Rezoning
- Bayswater/Far Rockaway Rezoning
- Bedford Stuyvesant Rezoning
- Briarwood Rezoning
- Bricktown Centre
- Brig Redevelopment, Wallabout Brooklyn
- Brooklyn Academy of Music Cultural District
- Brooklyn Greenway
- Brooklyn Navy Yard
- Bush Terminal Park
- Clinton Hill/Ft. Greene Rezoning
- College Point Police Academy
- Columbia University Expansion
- Columbus Circle
- Con Ed Site Redevelopment
- Coney Island Development
- Cooper Square Urban Renewal Area
- Cross Harbor Freight Tunnel
- Domino Sugar Factory
- Downtown Brooklyn
- Downtown JFK-LIRR Link
- DUMBO Rezoning
- Dyker Heights/Fort Hamilton Rezoning
- East River Plaza
- East River Science Park
- East River Waterfront
- East Side Access
- Far Rockaway and Mott Creek Rezoning
- Far West Village Rezoning
- Fieldston Landmark Designation
- Flushing Development
- Fordham Expansion
- Forest Hills Rezoning
- Fresh Kills Master Plan
- Fulton Street Transit Center
- Gansevoort Marine Transfer Station
- Garment District Rezoning
- Gateway Center at Bronx Terminal Market
- General Theological Seminary Tower (Chelsea)
- Governors Island
- Gowanus Development
- Greenpoint-Williamsburg Rezoning
- High Line Redevelopment + Whitney Museum
- HUB Retail and Office Center
- Hudson Railyards
- Hudson River Park
- Hudson Yards Rezoning & Development
- Hunter College Health-Professions Tower
- Hunts Point Vision Plan
- Inwood/Sherman Creek Waterfront Rezoning
- Jamaica, Queens Development and Rezoning
- Javits Convention Center Expansion
- JetBlue JFK Terminal
- Kingsbridge Armory
- Kissena Park Rezoning
- Lincoln Center Redevelopment
- Long Island City
- Lower East Side Rezoning
- Lower Manhattan Development
- Maspeth - Woodside Rezoning
- Mets Stadium Construction
- Middle Village-Glendale Rezoning
- Midwood Rezoning
- Mott Haven School Campus
- Moynihan Station
- Museum for African Art
- New Madison Square Garden
- New Rego Park, Queens Mall
- New York City Building Code
- New York City Hospital Redevelopment
- New York Diamond Tower
- New York Historical Society Tower
- No. 7 Line Extension
- North Brother Island
- North Tribeca Rezoning
- NYC 2012 Olympic Bid
- NYU Development
- One Madison Ave Clocktower
- P.S. 64 Redevelopment
- PlaNYC 2030
- Plaza Hotel Redevelopment
- Policy Developments - Landmarks
- Public Place
- Queens Botanical Garden
- Queens Plaza
- Queens West
- Randalls Island Water Park and Playing Fields
- Red Hook Cruise Terminal
- Red Hook Development
- Renaissance Ballroom and Renaissance Casino
- Seventh Regiment Armory (Park Ave.)
- Silvercup West
- SoHo Sanitation Garage
- Solid Waste Management Plan
- South Bronx Jail Plan
- South Ferry Terminal Project
- South Street Seaport Redevelopment
- South Village Historic District
- Springfield Gardens Rezoning
- St. Vincent’s Expansion
- Stapleton Waterfront District
- Starrett City
- Staten Island NASCAR Track
- Staten Island North Shore Light Rail
- Stuyvesant Town and Peter Cooper Village
- Sunnyside Yards Platform
- The Caledonia (Chelsea)
- Trump Soho Hotel Condominiums
- Union Square Redesign
- Union-Utopia Rezoning
- United Nations Renovation
- Upper West Side Rezoning Proposal
- Uptown New York (East Harlem)
- Van Cortlandt Park Filtration Plant
- Via Verde - New Housing New York Legacy Project
- Washington Square Park Redesign
- West-Park Presbyterian Church Tower
- White Plains Courtyard
- Whitestone Rezoning
- Willets Point Development
- World Trade Center Redevelopment
- Yankee Stadium Construction
QUICK LINKS
- Comments on Generic Environmental Impact Statement - Municipal Art Society
- Downtown Flushing
- Generic Environmental Impact Statement Draft Scope of Work
- National Eminent Domain Blog
- No Land Grab
- Overview by Pratt Center
- Queens Olympic Committee
- Willets Point Development District - New York City Economic Development Corporation
- Willets Point Industry and Realty Association
Willets Point Development
Willets Point, also known as the Iron Triangle, is a 13-block area located near the Flushing and Corona neighborhoods in Queens consisting largely of auto repair shops, junkyards, and other industrial and small businesses. As of the 2000 census it had a population of one. Given its prime location near Shea Stadium and the currently under construction Citi Field (slated to arrive in 2009), as well as its access to a variety of transit options, the City is targeting Willets Point for major redevelopment. The City’s plans, led by the Economic Development Corporation (EDC), call for a $3 billion development over 60 acres, including over one million square feet in retail space, a hotel, and a convention center.
Although the area has few residents, local businesses are being affected by the redevelopment plans. The City is in negotiations with area business owners about relocation, and will consider the use of eminent domain if agreements cannot be reached. The displacement of these businesses has been a point of contention between City officials and members of Community Board 7, who will be reviewing the plan as part of the Uniform Land Use Review Process (ULURP). In response to workers and businesses’ concerns, the City has designated LaGuardia College in Long Island City to develop an educational program for the estimated 1,300 workers in the area to help train and place them in the new jobs that the redevelopment will create.
Mayor’s Executive Budget Includes $398 Million for Willets Point
Friday, May 02, 2008 | New York Observer | Topic: Economic Development
In Mayor Bloomberg’s Fiscal Year 2009 executive budget, he has proposed spending $398 million on the redevelopment of Willets Point, Queens. The money would go towards land acquisition and infrastructure development and would be one of the biggest “direct city contributions to an economic development project” under Mayor Bloomberg.
Willets Point Interest Group Splinters
Wednesday, April 30, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: General
The Committee to Save Willets Point (CSWP), an association of local businesses, is claiming that they were misrepresented by ACORN, an affordable housing advocacy organization. The two groups had united to fight against the City’s plans to redevelop Willets point, but CSWP’s top priority is relocation of small businesses while ACORN wants to ensure that a significant percentage of the housing in the mixed-use development is affordable. CSWP says that many of its members have been paying dues to ACORN, but felt betrayed at a meeting with City officials last month when ACORN said that it would stop negotiations if less than 60% of the housing units were affordable. CSWP is willing to negotiate as long as the City helps relocate their businesses.
Plan to Split Willets Point Redevelopment into Two Phases Faces Criticism
Tuesday, April 29, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development
The City’s Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is considering an option that would split redevelopment of Willet Point into two stages, developing the western portion first starting in 2009 and starting the eastern portion once the first portion is completed, likely in 2013. Queens Borough President Helen Marshall has criticized this plan, known as the Staged Acquisition Alternative, because she believes it will force families to live next to contaminated areas and could jeopardize the location of the proposed new convention center. According to the City’s plan, this approach would allow the City more time in relocating businesses and spread infrastructure costs out over more time.
Despite Council Opposition, Some Rally in Support of Willets Point
Thursday, April 24, 2008 | NY1 | Topic: Land Use
A group of residents and elected officials rallied on Thursday in support of the city’s plan to redevelop Willets Point despite the fact that City Council members have vowed to defeat the project. Queens Borough President Helen Marshall said the plans will turn the area into a “livable, wonderful community” by creating affordable housing, schools and commercial space in an area that is in desperate need of redevelopment.
Local Businesses Already Losing Out with Talk of Willets Point Redevelopment
Tuesday, April 22, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development
Although the City’s redevelopment plans for Willets Point have not been finalized, many businesses say they are already losing profits. Citing various reasons including roadblocks from construction of the new Mets Stadium, an increased police presence that deters undocumented individuals from the area, and a belief that businesses are already shutdown or relocated have all contributed to less business. Some of the local shops have been forced to shut down because of this decrease.
Coalition of Council Members Oppose Willets Point Plan
Tuesday, April 22, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Economic Development
Twenty-nine Council members sent a letter to Robert Lieber, deputy mayor for economic development, expressing their opposition to the plan for Willets Point as it currently stands. The certification process that triggers the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP) started on Monday and the Council members contend that the project will not survive the public review process with their opposition. Key concerns relate to the dislocation of local businesses and the lack of affordable housing in the plan.
City Plans to Move Forward on Willets Point and Hunters Point South Plans
Saturday, April 19, 2008 | Crain's New York Business | Topic: General
The city plans to certify two Queens projects into the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP) this Monday: Willets Point and Hunters Point South. The Willets Point redevelopment project has faced fierce scrutiny over the use of eminent domain and the displacement of local businesses. Hunters Point South has been a less controversial plan, but has still faced opposition over the lack of low-income housing. Financing the Hunters Point project could be trouble for the city as it is not able to issue bonds since the plan does not include 20% affordable housing. Certification of projects is the official trigger of the seven-month public review process, ULURP.
Details on Willets Point Business Owners Lawsuit Against NYC
Wednesday, April 09, 2008 | PR Inside | Topic: Land Use
A group of Willets Point business owners filed suit against the City on Wednesday claiming that the City purposefully refused critical infrastructure, creating both a nuisance and health and safety hazards so the City could advance their goal of redeveloping the area through eminent domain. They claim that the negligence has caused serious damages such as depreciated property values, difficulty attracting and retaining employees, and difficulties obtaining business loans and credit. The business owners also complain that the City has not been forthcoming with details about the plans of their proposed redevelopment of the area sponsored by the city’s Economic Development Corporation. The lawsuit names Mayor Michael Bloomberg and several city commissioners as defendants and seeks remediation as well as damages, the amount of which have yet to be specified.
Property Owners File Suit Against City Over Willets Point
Wednesday, April 09, 2008 | The Real Deal | Topic: General
Ten property owners and the Willets Point Industry and Realty Association (WPIRA) have filed a suit against the city. The suit claims that the city has engaged in “a campaign of intentional neglect” so that they city can claim blight and justify the use of eminent domain. The group has retained Michael Gerrard, the lawyer who represented Cablevision, in their opposition to the West Side Stadium.
Willets Point Protestors March Past Mets Fans
Wednesday, April 09, 2008 | AM New York | Topic: Economic Development
Opponents of the city’s plan to redevelop Willets Point marched past Mets fans outside Opening Day at Shea Stadium. The protesters want to keep the industrial neighborhood intact and believe that the city’s plan is flawed. Many businesses are concerned that they will not be able to remain open if they are relocated, and some opponents are worried about the lack of affordable housing in the city’s proposal. Many Mets fans did not support the protesters, and some spoke in favor of the redevelopment.
Protest of Willets Point Rezoning Scheduled
Tuesday, April 08, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Economic Development
Councilmember Hiram Monserrate is expected to lead a protest against the City’s plan to rezone Willets Point today in Queens. Monserrate is demanding that more affordable housing be included in the plan and also wants assurance about workers wages if the rezoning goes through. The City claims that the area is blighted and that a rezoning will allow for needed infrastructure improvements to happen. Some have even proposed that the area could house a new convention center for the City.
City Releases Renderings of Willet Points Redevelopment Plan
Monday, April 07, 2008 | Curbed | Topic: Economic Development
The City has released some renderings highlighting its plans to redevelop Willets Point in Queens. The rezoning could include 1.5 million square feet of commercial space and roughly 5,000 residential units. A group against the plan is expected to protest at the season opener for the Mets at Shea Stadium, located near to the redevelopment area.
Willets Point Businesses Still Feel Threatened by Eminent Domain
Monday, April 07, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development
The Willets Point Industry and Realty Association wrote an open letter to Mayor Bloomberg, published in the New York Daily News, objecting to the possibility of using eminent domain in the redevelopment of the industrial area. In the letter, the local business owners argue that Bloomberg should protect the interest of local businesses instead of “the interest of wealthy developers.” The Economic Development Corporation, the leading agency responsible for redevelopment of Willets Point, has yet to respond to the letter.
Affordable Housing a Sticking Point in Willets Point
Sunday, March 23, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Housing
Queens Council members are frustrated with the lack of details on the Economic Development Corporation’s (EDC) Willets Point project, especially in regards to affordable housing. While 24% of families making under $50,000 live in Queens according to research done by the Pratt Center for Community Development, Mayor Bloomberg’s affordable housing program for the city has only allotted 3.7% of the new 46,000 units to Queens. Councilman Hiram Monserrate (D-Queens) says he won’t back the Willets Point project unless two thirds of the housing units are set aside for poor and middle-income families. Deputy Mayor Robert Lieber says that Monserrate’s proposal is financially unfeasible because of the high costs of cleaning up Willets Point.
Real Estate Community Concerned that Paterson May Oppose the Use of Eminent Domain
Friday, March 14, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Politics & Government
Several stakeholders of the real estate community are concerned that when Lt. Governor David Paterson assumes the governor position he may oppose the use of eminent domain on high-profile developments. According to the New York Sun, when Patterson was state Senate Leader he rallied for a statewide moratorium on the use of eminent domain. Potential developments that could be affected if Patterson opposes the use of eminent domain for economic development is Columbia University Expansion, Atlantic Yards in Brooklyn, and Shea Stadium in Willets Point Queens. No official statement by Patterson’s office on the subject matter has been released.
Javits Convention Center Could Move to Willets Point
Monday, February 25, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Economic Development
In the midst of political struggle over the future of the Javits Center, some speculate that relocating the convention center to Willets Point in Queens might be a feasible alternative. The City’s current environmental review of the Willets Point development includes plans for a convention center. It is unclear whether this center would act as a complement to or a replacement for Javits. Proponents of the plan argue that the Willets area does not have many of the difficulties, such as air rights and congestion, which the current Javits site faces.
ULURP Delays on Willets Point Project
Thursday, February 21, 2008 | Times Ledger | Topic: Economic Development
The city’s Economic Development Corporation (EDC) announced that they would not be starting the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP) on February 25 as previously planned. EDC spokeswoman, Yonit Golub, said that the delay was due to the need for further environmental assessment and review. This announcement comes less than a week after several Queens Council Members withdrew their support for the project. A new date to start the ULURP has not yet been set.
Lack of Information Presented Stymieing Willets Point Plan
Thursday, February 21, 2008 | Queens Chronicle | Topic: Economic Development
Three Queens City Council Members have asked the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to provide more specific details regarding the city’s plan to redevelop Willets Point. Specifics regarding the number of affordable housing units and infrastructure improvements have not been provided to the Council Members. Until their questions are answered, the Council Members will remain opposed to the current plan. EDC is hopeful to present their plan to Community Board 7 in March. It must be certified by the Department of City Planning first, however.
Willets Point a Tough Place to Redevelop
Tuesday, February 19, 2008 | New York Observer | Topic: Economic Development
Willets Point has been a target for redevelopment for over five decades, and Mayor Bloomberg is the most recent mayor to tackle this area. The area has been difficult to redevelop because it has an entrenched group of aggressive landlords. However, the current Mayor believes that a strong real estate market plus incentives will help his plan move forward where others did not. Public review for the Mayor’s plan, which will turn the industrial park into a mixed-use community, is slated to begin next week. Some local politicians oppose the plan, while others support it. City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, whose approval will likely be necessary for the plan to succeed, has not formally taken a position on the redevelopment.
Opposition Forces Delay in City’s Plan for Willets Point
Tuesday, February 19, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development
The Economic Development Corporation (EDC) announced that it will delay the presentation of the Willets Point redevelopment plans for community review by at least two weeks in order to work out additional details. Plans were delayed after Queens Councilmember Hiram Monserrate demanded the city include more affordable housing and union jobs to the redevelopment plans. Monserrate is expected to meet with city officials to work out details in the plan.
Queens Councilmembers Voice Opposition to Willets Point Plans
Friday, February 15, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Land Use
Several Queens councilmembers are no longer backing the redevelopment of Willets Point, including Hiram Monserrate who represents that area. Monserrate claims he will hold his support of the project until the city develops a plan to provide “livable wage jobs and affordable housing.” This opposition comes at a time when union leaders are also demanding certain allowances be included in the plans. The plans are expected to be displayed at community board hearings on February 25 and then will have to be approved by the City Council before building can commence.
Pratt Report Calls Willets Point Plan “Badly Flawed”
Wednesday, February 13, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development
A coalition of local groups joined with the Pratt Center for Community Development to issue a report that criticizes the city’s plans to redevelop Willets Point. The report notes that the plan does little to connect the new development to surrounding communities and does not guarantee affordable housing. This information was gathered from workshops held with community groups and residents. Pratt’s report also offers some recommendations for the city to consider before the public review process, the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP), begins. Some politicians agree with the report’s criticisms, while others expressed support for the city’s plan. The City Council must certify a plan before ULURP begins.
Queens Chamber of Commerce Limited Involvement in Willets Point Fight
Tuesday, February 12, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development
The Queens Chamber of Commerce is supporting the relocation of only the “core” businesses in Willets Point, which amounts to only a dozen or so businesses of the roughly 250 located in the Iron Triangle. This has angered some who are concerned about the over 200 other businesses in the area. Jack Friedman, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce in Queens, said he was given the names of only the “legitimate” businesses by a group of the larger companies that make up the Willets Point Industry and Realty Association. Some involved in the Association deny that they have delineated which businesses are legitimate.
Property Owners Rally in Willets Point
Friday, February 08, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Land Use
Both property owners and workers from Willets Point “Iron Triangle” rallied yesterday against redevelopment plans that they believe will destroy a profitable economic area with 1500 jobs and replace it with condos and retail space. The Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is expected to certify the redevelopment plans by the end of February which will start the public review process, the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP).
Local Elected Officials Support Development in Willets Point
Thursday, February 07, 2008 | Queens Courier | Topic: Land Use
Congressman Joe Crowley (D-NY) announced his support for plans to redevelop Willets Point. Crowley also urged the cleaning of the Flushing Bay and Creek as part of the Willets Point development work. A feasibility study is currently underway for the cleaning of the waterways and Crowley hopes that the outcome will provide remediation steps including dredging. Crowley, Queens Borough President Helen Marshall and Councilmember John Liu are urging the city’s Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to consider cleanup costs in their overall plans for the area.
Queens Advocacy Groups Call For Affordable Housing in Willets Point
Wednesday, January 30, 2008 | Queens Gazette | Topic: Housing
Several advocacy groups called for affordable housing to be added to the Willets Point redevelopment plan at a meeting on Tuesday. The groups also suggested that the plan not move forward until a strategy to treat displaced workers and businesses is developed.
Queens CB7 Presses for Information on Willets Point Plan
Thursday, January 17, 2008 | Times Ledger | Topic: Land Use
Queens Community Board 7 is pressing the city to unveil its Willets Point development plans before the Uniformed Land Use Procedure Process (ULURP) begins later this year. Mayor Bloomberg presented a plan for the area in May, which would bring mixed-use development to an area that is presently industrial. The community board believes that the presentation of concrete plans will clarify misconceptions about the city’s intentions. The city’s Economic Development Corporation will provide an update on the city’s plans in late January.
LaGuardia Proposes Support Program for Willets Point Workers
Wednesday, December 19, 2007 | Queens Gazette | Topic: Economic Development
LaGuardia Community College in Long Island City is in the process of developing a workforce development program to support the 1,300 workers employed in Willets Point. The program will also offer classes, technical support, and assistance in finding future employment if the City’s plan to redevelop Willets Point, which includes relocation of existing businesses, is approved. Hiram Monserrate, the area’s council representative, expressed his support of the program, saying that LaGuardia has a proven history of effective job training programs. The city's Economic Development Corporation announced that LaGuardia’s program is currently under review in the approval process.
Willets Point Owners Say City Not Helping With Relocation Efforts
Tuesday, December 18, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Land Use
Willets Point business owners are expressing their disappointment and concern with the help the City has been willing to give them in their relocation efforts. The City hopes to turn the industrial area into a mixed-use neighborhood that could bring in $4 billion in revenue over 30 years. When the plan was unveiled in May, the City offered to help businesses relocate after they purchased their buildings, but residents say that the alternatives the City has proposed are unreasonable. The Economic Development Corporation says that it is doing all it can to reach a negotiated settlement and avoid the use of eminent domain.
Some Council Members Concerned with Process City Using in Willets Point
Thursday, December 06, 2007 | Queens Ledger | Topic: Land Use
At a City Council Land Use Committee hearing last week, several Council Members representing various parts of Queens expressed concerns with the process by which the city is using to redevelop Willets Point. Some Council Members were concerned that the city is proposing going forward with the ULURP process without a specific development plan or a developer for the area. There is concern that this will take power away from the City Council, which under ULURP has the final vote on any redevelopment plans. Officials from the Economic Development Corporation have said that because of the size and complexity of the project, it is not beneficial to have a detailed plan at this point in the process. Certain Council Members also raised concerns about how the negotiations between the city and effected business owners are progressing.
Former Speaker Vallone Joins Willets Point Land Owners in Redevelopment Fight
Friday, November 30, 2007 | NY1 | Topic: Economic Development
Former City Council Speaker Peter Vallone, Sr. announced on a DVD produced by Willets Point land owners that he is opposed to the City’s redevelopment plans for the 60-acre area. Ten local land owners played the DVD at a public hearing before the City Council. The City plans to turn the industrial area into a mixed-use commercial, retail, and residential district, but current business owners are opposed to being forced out. The City stated that it will consider the use of eminent domain as a last resort.
Unions Urging Labor Benefits Agreements; Willets Point at Issue
Friday, November 30, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development
With the backing of several members of the City Council, many union leaders are demanding labor benefit agreements with the city. Unions are vowing to block major redevelopment plans in the city unless provisions for “more union jobs and living wage non union jobs” are included in development plans. Robert Lieber, head of the Economic Development Corporation, testified during a hearing on Willets Point that negotiations are underway between the city and organized labor but he did not give any specifics about the negotiations.
Willets Point Business Owners to Attend City Council Meeting
Wednesday, November 28, 2007 | AM New York | Topic: Land Use
As Shea Stadium and Citi Field make progress in Willets Point Queens, business owners continues to battle with the city over the 60-acre redevelopment. Mayor Bloomberg’s redevelopment plans include rezoning the area from manufacturing to mixed-use, which will allow for a new convention center, housing, school and retail. In order to make this happen, the city will have to relocate over 200 existing businesses. Willets Point business owners are frustrated with the lack of basic infrastructure in the area and are adamant that they will not relocate. Many are planning to attend the City Council committee meeting on Thursday to protest the development. The city is considering using eminent domain to relocate these businesses.
Former Queens Borough President Touts Willets Point Redevelopment
Friday, November 23, 2007 | Times Ledger | Topic: Land Use
Claire Shulman, former Queens Borough President, spoke in favor of Mayor Bloomberg’s plan to redevelop Willets Point, which would turn the industrial site into a mixed use development. Shulman, who heads a Willets Point redevelopment advocacy group, has conceded that there will likely be a legal battle with the current business owners on the site, but says she does not believe that the city will use eminent domain. The city could begin the public approval process as soon as February, and a developer could be selected for the site by next fall.
Business Owners/ City Prepare for Legal Battle over Willets Point
Thursday, November 15, 2007 | Times Ledger | Topic: Economic Development
The redevelopment of Willets Point is gaining momentum pending the release of an Environmental Impact Statement and an approaching legal battle between local business owners and city developers. The Willets Point Industry and Reality Association (WPIRA), a group of business owners with a combined ownership of 50% of the plan’s footprint, have long been opposed to the plan's removal of industrial jobs in place of commercial and retail. An environmental impact statement assessing the land’s cleanup and infrastructure needs is expected to be released and has prompted both sides of the debate to acquire professional legal services from well-known environmental lawyers. The city’s Economic Development Corporation, which is handling the project, has also alluded to the use of eminent domain in order to go forward with the plan if necessary.
Flushing and Willets Point Development Losing Steam, Says City Councilman
Thursday, October 11, 2007 | Times Ledger | Topic: Land Use
Redevelopment plans for three projects in the Flushing area are stalling according to City Councilman John Liu. The first project has already been pulled by RKO and Keith. Development of a second site, Municipal Lot 1, by Flushing Commons LLP is losing support from the community and little progress from the city's Economic Development Corporation has been made. Lastly, the Willets Point redevelopment is lingering due to public approval process delays.
Former Borough President Working with Willets Point Businesses
Thursday, September 20, 2007 | Times Ledger | Topic: Politics & Government
In order for the city’s $3 billion mixed-use redevelopment plan to go forward in Willets Point, the city needs to be fair and properly negotiate with local business owners, says former Queens Borough President Claire Shulman. Shulman, who now heads the Flushing Willets Point Corona Local Development Corporation, is in communication with local businesses about the city’s plan to relocate many of these companies to make way for new development. To date, many business owners have been unimpressed with the manner in which the city has approached potential buyouts as well as the city’s lack of infrastructure improvements in the area over the past few decades. The city hopes to be finished with purchasing of properties by the start of 2009.
Protest Against Eminent Domain in Willets Point
Thursday, July 05, 2007 | Times Ledger | Topic: Economic Development
On June 28th, workers and business owners from Willets Point protested against the use of eminent domain to pave the way for a development plan set to take place between Shea Stadium and downtown Flushing. The plan is part of Mayor Bloomberg’s Green Plan. The protestors were joined by three City Council members.
Multi-Billion-Dollar Willets Point Proposal Headed to ULURP
Thursday, June 14, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development
Robert Lieber, president of the Economic Development Corporation, said yesterday that the plan to redevelop Willets Point, Queens, from its current incarnation of auto shops and junkyards, into a residential and retail haven, will cost “north of $3 billion” to complete. The proposal is set to be submitted for ULURP in the near future.
Local Businesses Anticipating Willets Point Plan
Saturday, June 09, 2007 | New York Newsday | Topic: Economic Development
Mayor Bloomberg's vision for Willets Point: 5,500 housing units, 1.7 million square feet of retail, and 500,000 square feet of office space, might inspire many, but the reality of redevelopment is discomforting to a host of local businesses owners. Close to 225 businesses, mostly in the automotive fields, would have to leave their current workplaces in order for the full plan to be realized. While the city has promised job training and transition assistance to businesses likely to be displaced, many local owners are still resistant to change. In the event that the plan goes ahead, a developer will be chosen in the summer of 2008.
Willets Point Plan Revealed
Thursday, May 31, 2007 | Queens Chronicle | Topic: Economic Development
On Tuesday Mayor Bloomberg unveiled the master plan for the Willets Point development near Citi Field in Queens. The 60-acre site is mostly composed of auto repair shops. After the revamp, planners hope that Willets Point will resemble neighborhoods like those near Fenway Park in Boston and Camden Yards in Baltimore. Many local business owners are worried about the possibility of eminent domain.
Mayor Touts Three-Year Plan for Willets Point
Wednesday, May 02, 2007 | NY1 | Topic: Economic Development
The city unveiled a plan to redevelop 60 acres of Queens' Willets Point neighborhood, a prominently industrial area near Shea Stadium known as the Iron Triangle. The redevelopment aims to turn the area into a mixed-use district with affordable housing, schools, and open spaces, as well as the first convention center outside of Manhattan. Mayor Bloomberg heralded the redevelopment by arguing that the Willets Point area was ready for economic growth. The city will employ new green-building construction in its development process. Not everyone praised the plan, however, as many local businesses oppose the government's right to claim their properties through eminent domain.
Eminent Domain Protests Expected at Willets Point Meeting
Monday, April 30, 2007 | Crain's New York Business | Topic: Economic Development
The city's Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is expecting community opposition during its Thursday public hearing on its redevelopment plans for the Willets Point neighborhood of Queens. Almost all observers expect that the bulk of opposition will come from area businesses, which fear that the government's eminent domain power will displace them during development. Willets Point, an area near Shea Stadium, is largely devoid of population and saturated with renting businesses like auto repair shops. The city will determine the scope of its environmental impact statement during the meeting. A long public review process is expected after the first of the public hearings on Thursday.
Willets Point Plan Could Hurt Area Businesses
Thursday, April 05, 2007 | Times Ledger | Topic: Land Use
The city's Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is considering plans to redevelop the Willets Point neighborhood in Queens, known as the Iron Triangle, which would require removing 200 businesses that currently exist through the power of eminent domain. While the EDC believes that incremental demolition would create environmental problems, local business owners largely oppose the redevelopment plans. According to a land use study by Council Member Monserrate, relocation of existing businesses would be particularly burdensome because 82% of area businesses rent their property.
Local Businesses Weary of Plan for Willets Point
Friday, March 30, 2007 | Queens Courier | Topic: Economic Development
The city and its Economic Development Corporation have plans for the private development of 75 acres of the Willets Point area of Queens, known as the Iron Triangle, that would transform the traditional auto-shop industry located there into a mixed development of housing, office, community, hotel, and education space. The area, which includes about 250 businesses, has been relatively devoid of development due to a lack of sewer system, illegal dumping, petroleum spilling, and a dearth of infrastructure. The city is currently assessing eight responses it received from private developers for an RFP it issued for the area, as well as consulting community interests. While the EDC touts the development's additional jobs and tax revenue, some local citizens fear displacement and abuse of eminent domain powers.
Creating Affordable Housing In Queens
Thursday, September 28, 2006 | Queens Chronicle | Topic: Housing
A recent conference on affordable housing in Queens looked at prospective sites for development in the borough. The sites discussed include Queens West in Hunters Point, the rezoning of downtown Jamaica, the development of Willets Point, and a plan to construct a housing platform over the Sunnyside railyards. The meeting, organized by Queens for Affordable Housing, resulted in a prioritized list of strategies to encourage the creation of affordable housing.
Willets Point Project Gains Momemtum
Thursday, September 21, 2006 | Queens Chronicle | Topic: Land Use
The city’s Economic Development Corporation is allocating $2 million to begin an environmental study of Willets Point, the 75 acre Queens neighborhood currently home to junkyards and auto parts businesses. Preliminary proposals for the area have included a convention center with retail space, possible housing and retail shops. Everyone involved, though, acknowledges that any type of development is a few years away.
Living In The Shadow Of Shea
Sunday, September 17, 2006 | New York Times | Topic: Land Use
According to a new plan, the City hopes to use eminent domain to transform Willets Point into a retailing-and-entertainment district with a hotel and convention center. The sole resident of the neighborhood near Shea Stadium is dismayed by this news.
Businesses Trying to Fight Eminent Domain
Wednesday, July 26, 2006 | New York Press | Topic: Economic Development
The City admits all the businesses at Willets Point are facing the threat of eminent domain. The city has made a case that blight does in fact exist in the area due to an insufficient infrastructure ranging from a lack of storm drains to an abundance of pothole-ridden roads. However, business owners claim the blight is a result of City neglect to the area's infrastructure.
Future's Bright for Queens
Thursday, June 15, 2006 | Queens Tribune | Topic: Politics & Government
New York State Comptroller Alan Hevesi joined Borough President Helen Marshall and the Queens Economic Development Corporation to report a growing and vibrant Queen's economy, calling it "an attractive place to live" and the "immigrant center of the world."
Monserrate Continues to Voice Opposition
Wednesday, June 14, 2006 | Queens Gazette | Topic: Economic Development
City Councilmember Hiram Monserrate and a coalition of community leaders and advocates gathered to oppose the EDC plan last Thursday. They want to tell developers what to build in the community not the other way around.
The Battle for Willets Point
Tuesday, June 13, 2006 | | Topic: Economic Development
Willets Point has withstood numerous attempts to redevelop the area and now they must again formulate a formidable defense against the city. However, this time the Willets Point site itself may be the area's best defense against outside, private redevelopment.
Iron Triangle Redevelopment: Not So Easy
Wednesday, May 17, 2006 | New York Times | Topic: Economic Development
The administration has escalated redevelopment priorities in Willets Point in the wake of the $700 million Mets Stadium. However, the community and some planning experts are not so sure a complete community overhaul is necessary. The 46 acres of privately owned land will not be obtained by the city easily.
No Need for Development
Tuesday, May 16, 2006 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development
Hunter College released a study last week that shows Willets Point Triangle is an active business district that provides entry-level jobs for many new immigrant communities, and it questions the city's proposed development plans for the area.
Report says Willets Point is Important Hub
Thursday, May 11, 2006 | Queens Tribune | Topic: Economic Development
A report created by Hunter College and sponsored by City Council member Hiram Monserrate contends that Willets Point, where the City has major redevelopment plans, provides more jobs and business opportunities than commonly thought.
World’s Fair Proposed for Queens
Monday, May 01, 2006 | Gothamist | Topic: General
The Bureau of International Exhibitions is considering New York to host the World’s Fair in 2012 or 2015. Twenty years since the last fair, the Flushing Meadows Corona Park World’s Fair Association is eager to accept the opportunity. Standing in the way of the deal are political tie ups that require Mayor Bloomberg and President Bush’s approval.
Recent Projects Divide Communities
Monday, May 01, 2006 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: General
A trio of recent projects in New York - the new Yankee Stadium, the Gateway Center at the Bronx Terminal Market, and the redevelopment of Willets Point - have brought community upheaval, as issues of community relations, economic development, and politics are played out in the public planning process.
Zoning Review In Queens
Thursday, April 13, 2006 | Queens Tribune | Topic: Land Use
14 Queens neighborhoods are under zoning review by the Department of City planning. The review is intended to develop zoning ideas that would develop the various neighborhoods.
Willets Point: A Potenial Economic Disaster
Monday, April 10, 2006 | Gotham Gazette | Topic: Economic Development
City Hall plans to use eminent domain to foster economic development in the area around Willets Point, but it could lead to economic stagnation. While the Economic Development Corporation claims that there are only 80 businesses a recent Hunter College survey suggests that there are actually 225.
Fans Give Input on Questions Surrounding the New Mets Stadium
Sunday, April 02, 2006 | New York Times | Topic: General
The Mets have yet to officially announce their plans for a new stadium, but fans are already discussing possible names, design elements, and the demolishing of old Shea stadium. Finding a suitable name for the new baseball park is a heated topic as many fans dislike company named arenas such as Tropicana Field.
Agency Approves Assistance for Yankees, Mets Stadiums
Wednesday, March 15, 2006 | Other | Topic: Economic Development
The New York City Industrial Development Agency has given preliminary approval for financing assistance for new stadiums for the Yankees and Mets. The agency will issue about $930 million in bonds for the Yankees' venture, while $632 million will go to the Mets.
Yankees, Mets Stadiums Proceeding Quicker Than Others
Tuesday, March 14, 2006 | | Topic: Economic Development
Plans for new facilities for the Yankees and Mets are moving through the review and approval process at a quicker pace than efforts for the Jets and Nets, worrying those who believe the developments need more time for public debate.
Finalists for the Project Are Announced
Thursday, March 09, 2006 | Queens Tribune | Topic: Politics & Government
The EDC announced 8 finalists for re-development of the 75 acre Willets Point area. These 8 finalists are invited to submit their proposals by May 5th, as the public review process is scheduled to begin.
City Picks Finalists For Willets Point
Friday, March 03, 2006 | New York Sun | Topic: Economic Development
Eight firms have been selected to bid for the 2-3 billion dollar project to makeover a 75 acre site. Firms selected include: Forest City Ratner Companies, the Related Companies, and Vornado Realty Trust.
City Council Member Advocates for Businesses in Iron Triangle
Thursday, February 23, 2006 | Times Ledger | Topic: Politics & Government
City Council Member Hiram Monserrate (D-Corona) advocated for business owners in the Willets Point Development Zone. He says they have not been adequately represented and little attention has been given to their needs and concerns.
Business Owners in 'Iron Triangle' Fear Eviction
Tuesday, February 21, 2006 | NY1 | Topic: Land Use
As the EDC moves forward with plans to redevelop in the ‘Iron Triangle,’ many of the same businesses that once were soliciting help are now afraid of being pushed out.
Councilman Hiram Monserrate (D): Willets Point Is Being Ignored
Tuesday, February 21, 2006 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development
Councilman Hiram Monserrate (D) worries that in looking for new development projects the city is overlooking the need to substantiate Willets Point's infrastructure. Monserrate stresses that whatever the outcome, everyone "must be treated fairly."
Willets Point -- Full Steam Ahead
Thursday, February 16, 2006 | Queens Chronicle | Topic: Economic Development
Councilman John Liu believes that the building of a new Mets stadium may serve as a catalyst for the Willets Point redevelopment. Liu believes that a developer for Municipal Parking Lot 1 could be selected in less than 17 months.
City wants proposals for 'Triangle'
Monday, February 13, 2006 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development
The future of the "Iron Triangle," a gritty 48-acre cluster of junkyards in Willets Point just east of Shea Stadium, brightened a bit last week as New York City's Economic Development Corp. issued a Targeted Request for Proposals for the redevelopment of Willets Point.
Mayor To Redevelop Iron Triangle in Bid To Transform Flushing
Wednesday, January 25, 2006 | New York Sun | Topic: Economic Development
Next month, the Bloomberg administration will ask preselected developers to submit proposals to remake Willets Point, aiming for a mix of residential, commercial, retail, and entertainment use.
Eminent domain revisited
Monday, December 12, 2005 | Gotham Gazette | Topic: Land Use
This story discusses New York State's powers of eminent domain in the context of three projects: the Atlantic Yards project in Brooklyn, the Columbia University expansion in Manhattan, and the Mets stadium in Willets Point in Queens.
Queens: A Rezoning Machine
Thursday, December 01, 2005 | Other | Topic: Land Use
Queens is undergoing some of the biggest zoning changes it has experienced in over three decades. The Department of City Planning is studying a number of different neighborhoods primarily in an attempt to curb overdevelopment and preserve Queens' rapidly vanishing single-family neighborhoods.
City Officials And Community Groups Commit to Flushing River Cleanup
Tuesday, November 08, 2005 | New York Daily News | Topic: Waterfront
Councilman John Liu and representatives from Citizens for NYC and the Coastal Preservation Network gathered to show support for the clean up of Flushing River, seen part of the overall development of Flushing and Willets Point.
Stadium in Queens sparks opposition
Thursday, August 25, 2005 | Queens Chronicle | Topic: General
Although Queens Borough President Helen Marshall is in support of the Jets relocating to the borough, other officials and community members have voiced their opposition.
Jets and Queens officials meet about stadium
Wednesday, August 24, 2005 | New York Daily News | Topic: Land Use
Queens politicians and Jets representatives met to discuss the proposal for a football stadium in Flushing Meadows/Corona Park.
Olympic bid may still result in development
Thursday, July 07, 2005 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development
Despite the city's loss of the 2012 Olympics, other developments spurred by the Olympic proposal may go forward.
Queens Olympic site getting attention
Monday, June 20, 2005 | Crain's New York Business | Topic: Economic Development
With the Olympic stadium now proposed for the Willets Point section of Queens, developers have taken a new interest in the area.
Plan for Willets Point conference center
Wednesday, April 20, 2005 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development
The Queens Chamber of Commerce has a plan for Willets Point. They've proposed an exposition/conference/hotel center, citing earlier studies that showed there is a strong market for such a facility in Queens. "Willets Point was the most logical place, given its proximity to the airport and public transportation and to the roadways," said chamber president Raymond Irrera.
Queens Stadium Site Becomes Hot Button Election-Year Issue
Thursday, March 17, 2005 | Queens Chronicle | Topic: Politics & Government
Earlier this month Mayor Michael Bloomberg said the city would "consider" a Queens site for the proposed West Side Stadium, only to backtrack the next day, saying the stadium would be built in Manhattan or not at all. The slip marked a change for Bloomberg, who originally pitched the West Side Stadium as the new home for the New York Jets and the centerpiece of the city's bid for the 2012 Summer Olympic Games. His mayoral opponents are united in their opposition to the West Side stadium.
Queens awaits $72M from federal bill for projects
Thursday, March 17, 2005 | Times Ledger | Topic: Finance
The House of Representatives passed a massive $283.9 billion legislative package that could bring more than $72 million to Queens for the borough's transportation projects pending approval from the U.S. Senate and President George W. Bush. This includes $2M for Downtown Flushing and $3M to study traffic flow in Willets Point.
City open to ideas for Willets Point makeover
Thursday, February 17, 2005 | Times Ledger | Topic: Economic Development
"If you look at the Queens highway map, it almost looks like it was designed to bring people from all parts of the compass to Willets Point," Jeff Oakman, an Economic Development Corporation senior project manager. EDC is soliciting ideas from developers in order to begin the process of redeveloping an industrial parcel at Willets Point.
Developers broadening Flushing's horizons
Thursday, February 17, 2005 | Times Ledger | Topic: Economic Development
After 20 years of planning, Muss Development is poised to lay the cornerstone for Flushing waterfront's revitalization with a six-building residential and retail complex on Roosevelt Avenue and College Point Boulevard. The $600 million project will bring 725,000 square feet of commercial space and about 1,000 rental apartments and condos to a part of Flushing that is now largely industrial..
Forest Hills activist prepares packet for Olympic Committee
Wednesday, February 16, 2005 | Queens Chronicle | Topic: Land Use
David Oats, president and founder of the Queens Olympic Committee, has no objections to New York City hosting the 2012 summer games, but wants to see the proposed stadium built in Queens, not Manhattan.
Willets Point Request for Expression of Interest presentation
Thursday, January 13, 2005 | NYC Economic Development Corporation | Topic: Economic Development
This is a presentation prepared by the New York Economic Development Corporation to educate potential investors in the Willets Point part of Queens.