10 THE QUEENS COURIER • DECEMBER 3, 2015 FOR BREAKING NEWS VISIT www.qns.com Developers get a second chance at $3B Willets Point project BY SUZANNE MONTEVERDI editorial@queenscourier.com @queenscourier The New York State Court of Appeals decided last week that it would consider the Queens Development Group’s appeal to review the ruling that shot down their proposed $3 billion project in Willets Point. Queens Development Group, a partnership of Related Companies and Sterling Equities, announced their plans for the site back in 2012, which includes building housing, a hotel, a large shopping center and a movie theater complex. The now-contested ruling was announced on July 2 after four appellate judges overturned the Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of the developers, explaining that the project cannot move forward because the intended development space is part of Flushing Meadows Corona Park, designated public parkland, and the developers did not acquire the proper authorization necessary to transfer the land to a nonpublic entity. Since its inception the project has received criticism from state Senator Tony Avella, who stands by the court’s original ruling. Upon hearing about the Court of Appeals’ decision, Avella expressed his disappointment. “It is unfortunate that the Willets West developers have chosen to continue The Willets Point redevelopment plan calls for eventually constructing housing units and a mega mall near Citi Field. this legal battle. I, along with the City Club of New York, Queens Civic Congress, NYC Park Advocates, members of Willets Point United, as well as nearby residents and business owners, know that we stand on strong legal ground, and the Appellate Court agreed. The fact of the matter is that this is parkland–it belongs to the people–and my fellow petitioners and I are confi dent that the Court of Appeals will issue a fair ruling,” Avella Rendering courtesy of NYCEDC said. Should the court rule in the developers’ favor, they would receive clearance to move the project forward. Crain’s New York fi rst reported the Nov. 23 ruling by the Appellate Court. BUY DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER FREE Measuring & Installation w/purchase of $100. with this ad. • Draperies • Vertical Blinds • Honeycomb Shades • Custom Window Shades • Mini Blinds Nobody Beats Our Prices! • Roman Shades • Balloon Shades • Swags & Jabots • Shutters • Upholstery • Radiator Covers • Table Pads UP TO 70% OFF LIST PRICE Free Interior Design Consultation $20 OFF with purchase of $200 or more *Not to be combined w/other offers. Expires 12/11/15 $50 OFF with purchase of $500 or more *Not to be combined w/other offers. Expires 12/11/15 $100 OFF with purchase of $1,000 or more *Not to be combined w/other offers. Expires 12/11/15 GOMER’S SINCE 1962 Window Treatments FREE SHOP AT HOME SERVICE SERVING QUEENS AND LONG ISLAND 1.800.522.6156 www.gomersdecorators.com
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