Hundreds of community members attended the first public hearing held by the Coney Community Advisory Committee, with nearly 100 standing in line to speak. A presentation on 'The Coney' outlined plans despite crowd disruptions, describing a casino hotel with convention space, retail, 20 restaurants, entertainment venues and nearly $5,000 permanent jobs in a neighborhood with 17% unemployment. Developers emphasized creating year-round activity. Community opinion was split between skepticism about promises and support for giving developers a chance. Developers proposed a $200 million community trust fund. A second hearing is scheduled in September before a final vote.
A brief presentation on 'The Coney' laid out most of their plans, despite multiple disruptions from the crowds. The casino hotel would feature convention space, retail stores, 20 world-class restaurants, entertainment venues and nearly $5,000 permanent jobs to a community with 17% unemployment. "Coney Island is very seasonal," said Peter McEneaney, executive vice president at Thor Equities. "And the ability to create year-round activity there is the No. 1 thing we've heard from many people in the community."
Community members were divided on their stance of the project. Many are not convinced that promises made will be a reality. Others are fighting to give developers a chance. At least one thing they seem to all want was something better for the community that already exists. Developers say they even plan to invest $200 million toward a community trust fund. A second public hearing will be held in September to give a chance to working residents to participate - before a final vote is made.
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