Politicians representing the West Side of Manhattan are raising objections to Related Cos.’ ambitious development plan for the High Line area, which includes a proposed Wynn Resorts casino hotel. The gaming venue is part of a larger $12 billion development initiative aimed at reshaping the western section of Hudson Yards. If the proposal is approved and Wynn secures one of the remaining downstate casino permits, the project would feature three towers, one emblazoned with the Wynn name. However, some local politicians are already signaling their resistance.
Assemblyman Tony Simone (D-District 75) informed The New York Post of his long-standing opposition to the West Side casino project. Unless there is a significant shift in his constituents’ views, he intends to maintain his stance. Simone’s dissent is particularly notable as he is positioned to be one of the six board members who will vote on whether to recommend the proposal to state regulators, who will ultimately decide the recipients of the three downstate casino licenses.
In addition to Simone, Assemblywoman Deborah Glick (D-District 66) has also voiced her opposition to the Related/Wynn proposal. Their objections coincide with the recent launch of the “Protect the High Line” campaign by a nonprofit group named after the park on Manhattan’s West Side. The organization contends that Related is attempting to modify a 2009 agreement with the city in a manner that could lead to obstructed views and a reduction in the anticipated residential housing.
The High Line area, known for its park space and elevated views of the Manhattan skyline, is central to the identity and appeal of the neighborhood. Glick, whose district encompasses the southern part of the High Line, released a statement to the Post opposing any developments that would mar these views or detract from the overall experience of the area.
Glick and Simone are not the first local officials to express reservations about the Related proposal. Earlier this year, Manhattan Community Board 4 (MCB4) voiced concerns about the casino plan and indicated apprehension over potential reductions in the number of housing units.
Local resistance is a common feature of many of the high-profile casino bids within the New York City area, a situation anticipated by gaming companies and their real estate partners. However, this opposition cannot be overlooked, as the success of these casino ventures largely hinges on building a consensus.
Recognizing this, Related is advocating for constructive dialogue with the community. The developer stated, “We have met with the High Line ten times and made meaningful amendments to our proposal in direct response to concerns they raised. It is our hope that as good neighbors, they would discuss any further concerns with us directly in the spirit of that constructive dialogue.”
