[NYguy]

https://ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/pol...nies-high-line

High Line faces off against developer over casino plan


By Courtney Gross
Dec. 12, 2024

When you think of the west side of Manhattan, two landmarks might come to mind: the High Line and Hudson Yards developed by Related Companies.

Now, those two titans of development are at odds over a plan by Related and Wynn Resorts to build a massive resort and casino, with office space and housing, on the site of the western rail yards — the second half of the Hudson Yards development.

“We met with the High Line 10 times over the course of a couple years on this project and then we haven’t really spoken to them since last May,” Andrew Rosen, chief operating officer of Hudson Yards, said.

The High Line countered: “When you meet with someone 10 times and they make minor adjustments and tweaks, I think what it shows is we haven’t been reluctant to meet, they’re not good listeners, and they have to be better listeners,” Alan van Capelle of Friends of the High Line said.

Both are trying to sway the community aggressively to their side.

Van Capelle brought a stack of petitions to the local community board Wednesday night, urging the board to reject the proposal.

The CEO of Related Companies attended, attempting to persuade the community to their side.

“This is an opportunity to make a big change for New York City, a lifetime change,” Jeff Blau, the CEO of Related, said. “And I am asking you, let’s not make this Amazon two.”

Related was delivered a loss this week — a committee at the local community board voted to reject the proposal, arguing the neighborhood wanted more housing, not a casino.

The Council is expected to consider the application this spring. From there, if approved, it will head to a state licensing board who will select up to three projects to get a casino license.

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