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March 18, 2008
David Paterson's Harlem roots
The Daily Voice
By Basil Smikle
Also important to watch are the powerful agencies where Governor Paterson will have major influence -- namely the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) which just hiked painful subway and bus fares as well as tolls on bridges and tunnels. He also appoints individuals to run the Empire State Development Corporation which will have major influence on three large-scale development projects: Atlantic Yards in Brooklyn where the New Jersey Nets intend to build their new arena, Hudson Yards on the West Side whose fate is uncertain and the controversial Columbia University expansion.
What makes the Columbia Expansion so interesting from a political standpoint is that their proposed new construction covers over 20 acres in West Harlem -- Paterson's backyard. Although the project was approved by city agencies and the city council it is vehemently opposed by many Harlem residents concerned about gentrification. It may prove to be an interesting test of the new governor's vision and tenacity.
NoLandGrab: The Columbia University plan prompted Paterson to take a pubilc stand against the use of eminent domain.
Posted by lumi at March 18, 2008 4:19 AM