NEW YORK, NY July 29, 2009 —By an overwhelming margin, the City Council approved Mayor Bloomberg's redevelopment plan for Coney Island. The rezoning plan shrinks the amusement district to 12 acres, and allows for hotels, restaurants, and four high rises.

Council Speaker Christine Quinn: Coney Island is one of the most recognizable icons in New York City. And that's why we believe this plan will lead to the revitalization of this storied section of our city.

But opponents say the plan will ruin Coney Island's character. There's one more hurdle: developer Joe Sitt, who owns several acres the city needs to create the amusement district.