As the elected representatives of the communities immediately impacted by the Belmont Park Redevelopment Project, we have been united in insisting that the voices of our constituents and stakeholders be heard throughout the planning and redevelopment process.

After extensive community outreach and numerous public hearings, we identified a critical need for improved mass transit options, including a full-service LIRR station, and a comprehensive traffic mitigation strategy for local roads and the Cross Island Parkway.

We are encouraged to hear that the needs of our constituents are being heard. Specially, that discussions of a full-service LIRR station to serve the community are progressing, and that an ongoing study of local roads and traffic patterns will result in the implementation of a multi-pronged plan for traffic mitigation.

With these concerns now being addressed by the developer and Empire State Development, we are eager to see the project proceed so that we can deliver the community improvements and responsible economic development attendant to this project.

We look forward to continuing to work with our constituents, Governor Andrew Cuomo, and our colleagues on the state and local level to ensure that this project brings the tangible results and benefits that our communities need and our residents deserve.

Sincerely,

Senator Anna M. Kaplan, Senate District 7

Senator Todd Kaminsky, Senate District 9

Senator Leroy Comrie, Senate District 14