Queens State Senator John Liu announced he would introduce a bill allowing New York Mets owner Steve Cohen to build a casino and entertainment complex, Metropolitan Park, on Citi Field’s parking lot. The land, currently designated as parkland, requires legislative approval for development.

Cohen's proposal had faced obstacles as Queens State Senator Jessica Ramos declined to introduce the necessary parkland alienation bill due to opposition from her constituents. Liu’s bill could advance Cohen’s bid for one of three downstate casino licenses. In return, Cohen pledged to build a pedestrian bridge, "Flushing Skypark," or donate $100 million for improvements to Flushing Meadows Corona Park if the bridge is not built.

Despite previously expressing concerns about gambling addiction in Asian American communities, Liu acknowledged that casinos are inevitable and promised to monitor potential harms. Ramos remains opposed to the project and vowed to vote against the bill. Meanwhile, Cohen's proposal has gained support from the City Council and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards.

“Gambling in the Asian American community is a problem that unfortunately is not being taken seriously enough, and there can be no doubt that the arrival of new casinos in New York City will lead to increased rates of gambling addiction, financial hardship and strained familial relationships for Asian-American New Yorkers,” the lawmakers wrote in the Daily News. 

The project includes hotels, a live music venue, a food hall, and 25 acres of park space. Cohen and Hard Rock are expected to submit their final proposal to the Gaming Commission in the coming months.

Read full article by By Jacob Kaye here