One of New York City's largest redevelopment projects in years -- the overhaul of Willets Point, Queens -- moved closer to reality this week.

 

Willets Point is located near LaGuardia Airport and the new Citi Field. (rendering by Beyer Blinder Belle, LLP)After a long, hot public meeting, the local community board approved the city Economic Development Corp.'s proposal, with a list of conditions, according to the Daily News. The following day, the Queens Borough President, Helen Marshall, said she would also sign off on the plan. The proposal must also be approved by the City Council, where it may face its toughest challenge.

 

The proposal calls for a sweeping overhaul of the 62-acre site, near LaGuardia airport, and the removal of auto repair shops and industrial businesses. In their stead, the city hopes to attract a builder to develop a convention center, residences and retail shops.

 

NYLCV supports the Willets Point redevelopment plan, because of long-standing concerns about the area's lack of sewers, historic contamination and the lack of waterfront access. The new development would remedy those concerns, while also adhering to smart-growth and green-building principles.