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July 05, 2008 | 71°F mist

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Businesses Protest Queens Redevelopment

by Cindy Rodriguez



NEW YORK, NY April 09, 2008 — As fans flocked to opening day at Shea Stadium, dozens of protesters concerned about a redevelopment plan for nearby Willets Point gathered outside the ball park.

The plan calls for clearing a 60-acre industrial area to make room for apartment buildings, a shopping district and possibly a convention center. It's meant to compliment Citi Field, the Mets new ball park under construction.

The city says the site is seriously contaminated and no one disputes it's a neglected eye soar. But, it's been home to a ragged strip of car shops for decades. And some business owners are worried they won't get relocated.

Arturo Olaya owns Arthurs Auto Trade Shop.

OLAYA: They always say but they never show nothing. They never show a paper. They never show us any land.

REPORTER: The city says its currently negotiating with dozens of businesses and working with La Guardia Community College to implement a job training and placement program for displaced workers.

For WNYC, I'm Cindy Rodriguez.



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