Staten Island's Bold New Path: Residents Reclaim Empire Outlets
The NYCEDC is shifting its focus to prioritize Staten Islanders in reimagining the Empire Outlets and NY Wheel sites, marking a shift from tourist-centric development.
In a remarkable turn of events on Staten Island, there is a renewed vigor in reimagining the future of the Empire Outlets and the New York Wheel sites. The New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) has shifted its focus from tourists to residents, listening keenly to the community’s heartbeats. According to SILive.com, this transformation is already brewing a storm of excitement among locals.
Community’s Voice Takes the Lead
Hundreds of Staten Islanders flooded the former Nordstrom Rack space to voice their aspirations for their beloved borough. Diana Switaj, representing NYCEDC, acknowledged past missteps and emphasized that this time the community’s voice resonates in each step of this visionary redeveloping journey.
Envisioning the Future
Judah Asimov, NYCEDC’s vice president of neighborhood strategies, vocalized a pivotal realization—serving residents over tourists. Staten Islanders have longed for spaces catering to their needs, such as housing, grocery stores, and local-centric businesses.
A Vote for Art and Culture
Take Back St. George coalition, powered by over 100 passionate individuals, voiced fervent support for integrating multi-use art and music spaces. Kwynn Hogan, a coalition member, stressed the importance of community-run initiatives, highlighting Maker Park Radio as a model of success and trust within the community.
A Community-Centric Approach
Staten Islanders have expressed strong sentiments towards turning these sites into symbols of resident empowerment. Michael Colombo, Democratic candidate for borough president, emphasized the need for community-centric spaces, underscoring a collective yearning for markets and medical offices over fleeting tourist attractions.
A Long Trek Ahead
As outlined by NYCEDC officials, this redevelopment endeavor is a long-term commitment, with plans to keep the community involved at every phase. A public vision report, set to be released by year-end, will encapsulate the voices of Staten Islanders, shaping a future that truly belongs to its residents.
Empowered and brimming with possibility, Staten Islanders stand at the threshold of transformative change. Together, they are redefining the narrative of Empire Outlets—not as a tourist attraction but as the epicenter of community-driven progress.