Senator Golden Speaks in Strong Support of Atlantic Yards Project at Senate Hearing

Martin J. Golden

June 1, 2009

Brooklyn- State Senator Martin J. Golden (R-C-I, Brooklyn), strongly advocated for ending the government generated delays that have prevented the Atlantic Yards project from moving forward at a meeting of the New York Senate Committee on Corporations, Authorities, and Commissions held this past Friday.

Senator Golden, speaking at the hearing stated, “The Atlantic Yards project will go a long way in helping Brooklyn recover from the current economic crisis this City, State and Nation is facing. When completed, this project will create 2,250 units of affordable housing and create thousands of jobs, including 17,000 construction jobs of which 8,500 will be permanent. Additionally, this will create $6.5 billion in total economic output during construction and $5.6 billion in new tax revenue for the City and State for more than 30 years into the future. Why is the government holding this project hostage?  It is surely going to be beneficial now and in the long term.”

Golden continued, “The Atlantic Yards Project, when completed, will include more than 8 million acres of new open space and $3 million dollars for our local parks. And of course, the New Jersey Nets, a major professional basketball team, will relocate to Brooklyn. This Arena will serve as the site for more than 200 events each year, including the circus, family shows, concerts, and more than 10 community events such as local college graduations. This project would be the real stimulus that Brooklyn needs to turn our economy around. It’s time we see action on this plan.”