In a surprising turn of events, unions have come to the rescue of Related Companies’ proposed casino development in Hudson Yards, providing a much-needed boost against objections from the High Line and other community groups. The contentious project has been the subject of intense debate for months, with opponents citing concerns about increased traffic, noise, and negative impacts on the iconic High Line park.
However, with the backing of influential labor groups including the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York, Related now has a powerful ally in its corner. The unions have pledged their support for the project, citing the potential for job creation and economic benefits for the local community.
“We believe that the Hudson Yards casino project has the potential to create thousands of good-paying jobs for our members and provide a much-needed economic boost to the area,” said Gary LaBarbera, president of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York. “We are proud to support Related Companies in their efforts to bring this exciting development to fruition.”
The support of the unions could be a game-changer for Related, as they navigate the complex approval process for the project. With the backing of organized labor, Related may find it easier to win over skeptical city officials and community stakeholders.
However, not everyone is pleased with the unions’ involvement in the project. Opponents of the casino development argue that the promise of jobs and economic benefits does not outweigh the potential negative impacts on the neighborhood and the High Line park.
“We are deeply disappointed to see the unions throwing their support behind this ill-conceived project,” said Robert Hammond, co-founder of Friends of the High Line. “We believe that the Hudson Yards casino would be a blight on our community and threaten the unique character of the High Line.”
Despite the opposition, Related Companies remains steadfast in their commitment to the project. They believe that the casino will be a valuable addition to the Hudson Yards development, adding to the vibrant mix of retail, residential, and commercial spaces in the area.
As the debate rages on, it remains to be seen whether the unions’ support will be enough to tip the scales in Related’s favor. With the stakes high and tensions rising, the battle over the Hudson Yards casino is far from over. Stay tuned for updates as this contentious project continues to unfold.
