Queens Officials Call for Action At Willets Point

Elected officials in Queens are calling for the city to move forward with a proposed development in Willets Point, despite strong objections from City Council members and local businesses. Yesterday, Queens President Helen Marshall led a rally outside of City Hall in support of the $3 billion plan, which would include a convention center and hotel.

Ms. Marshall described Willets Point, which does not have paved roads or sewer drains on some streets, as "blighted," and said that the development was needed to remove environmental hazards. Other speakers included state senators Frank Padavan and Toby Ann Stavisky and Assembly Member Nettie Mayersohn, who all represent parts of Queens.

Earlier this month, 29 City Council members, including Council Member Hiram Monserrate, whose district includes the development site, signed a letter to Mayor Bloomberg vowing to oppose the plan. The letter stated that more concessions were needed for local businesses displaced under the plan as well as the inclusion of more "affordable" housing units.