To The Editor:
In regard to your recent article, “Recchia heirs on Coney plan,” I am disappointed to find that the people looking to succeed me know so little about the redevelopment proposed for our community.
First, rents will not double, or triple. We have made extensive efforts to ensure current residents will not be forced out. We are even building more affordable housing.
New York City Housing Authority rents prices are stable, and are not dictated by economic development.
Second, the proposal does have a component for a new school at Surf Avenue and West 29th Street – one that will meet and surpass the evolving needs of our city’s children. During the negotiating process, I insisted on this to handle the influx of new residents.
Third, the people of western Coney Island are not being ignored. Besides the benefits they would reap from revitalization – including jobs – they are getting a state-of-the-art community center and continued improvements to Kaiser Park.
Finally, these negotiations are not going on “behind the scenes.” The plan has been on the table, the mayor has been actively involved and there have been countless meetings and focus groups with the community to discuss the future of Coney Island.
I understand the difficulty in redeveloping our community. I also know that the only way we are going to create local jobs, spur the economy all year long, retain the spirit of Coney Island and move toward the future is to work together.
Spreading incorrect information is a stumbling block on the road to revitalization.
Domenic M. Recchia, Jr.
Council Member
47th District
