In a surprising turn of events, a coalition of local residents, community activists, and preservationists have joined forces with the High Line conservancy in a bid to halt development giant Related Companies’ proposed $12 billion casino project in Hudson Yards.
The contentious proposal, which was unveiled last month by Related Companies CEO Stephen Ross, envisions the construction of a sprawling casino complex on the site of the current Hudson Yards development. The project would include a luxury hotel, shopping center, and entertainment venues, all centered around a massive casino floor with thousands of slot machines and table games.
Opponents of the project, including the High Line conservancy and allies such as the West Side Neighborhood Alliance and Save Our City, have raised numerous concerns about the potential impact of the casino on the surrounding community. They argue that the development would exacerbate issues such as traffic congestion, noise pollution, and gentrification, and could further strain already overburdened public services.
In a statement released earlier this week, Friends of the High Line co-founder Robert Hammond spoke out against the casino proposal, calling it “completely antithetical to the spirit of the High Line and everything it stands for.” Hammond went on to say that the project would “turn this vibrant, diverse neighborhood into a playground for the wealthy elite, further eroding the character and charm of the West Side.”
The coalition of opponents has launched a grassroots campaign to mobilize support against the casino project, including organizing community meetings, circulating petitions, and reaching out to local elected officials. They are calling on the City Council and Mayor Eric Adams to reject the proposal and preserve the character of the neighborhood.
On the other side of the debate, supporters of the casino project, including some local business owners and real estate developers, argue that it would bring much-needed economic development and job opportunities to the area. They point to the success of other casino projects in cities like Las Vegas and Atlantic City as evidence of the potential benefits of such a development.
The fate of the Hudson Yards casino project remains uncertain as the battle between Related Companies and its opponents heats up. With both sides digging in their heels, it appears that this high-stakes showdown is far from over. Stay tuned to westsidespirit.com for updates on this developing story.
