Critics of proposed Coney Island boardwalk casino plan say it won’t benefit the community
Opposers say the project is not created to benefit the community and will bring more traffic, crime and gambling addictions to the area.
Some Coney Island residents are fighting against a proposal to build a large casino complex on the iconic boardwalk.
The proposed plan would include the addition of a hotel, casino and entertainment venue. Representatives of the plan argue that it would revitalize the boardwalk by bringing jobs and investment to the neighborhood.
Opposers say the project is not created to benefit the community and will bring more traffic, crime and gambling addictions to the area.
Multiple people have voiced opposition to the proposal at recent community meetings. Around a dozen residents also gathered at the location on Saturday and left behind signs expressing disapproval of the plan.
“Put money into this property to build something for the community that would involve the youth, so they don't turn to doing negative things,” said longtime Coney Island resident Ann Michelle Valdez.
The license bidding process for the project is still in its early stages, so it is unclear if or when it will materialize. However, residents say they will not give up until the project is completely abandoned.
