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March 26, 2007
Demolition Begins For Atlantic Yards Project
WCBS
Developer Bruce Ratner is determined to push his $4 billion project forward, announcing the start of the demolition of 800 Pacific St. -- the site of the former bakery.
Along with the demolition comes the so-called abatement process -- the removing of hazardous substances, such as asbestos.
It's been reported that Ratner spent $2 million to lobby state and local lawmakers for the project last year -- the third-largest amount in the state -- behind a state healthcare insurance association and Verizon.
The centerpiece of Atlantic Yards will be the Frank Gehry-designed Barclay's Center Sports Arena, which will be the new home of the New Jersey Nets. The team will be renamed the Brooklyn Nets.
But the Atlantic Yards project remains controversial.
Lawsuits have been filed in opposition. And some critics contend that Ratner's plan to include affordable housing along with the commercial development is in reality a mask for a massive luxury project.
Posted by lumi at March 26, 2007 11:03 AM