"I am pleased that the MTA Board, including the representatives from the suburban counties, voted unanimously to approve the New York Jets' proposal to develop the western rail yards.  This widespread support shows the enthusiasm for this project not just here in New York City, but across the region.

"The Sports and Convention Center will catalyze the development of an area that has been neglected for decades as the rest of the City has grown by leaps and bounds.  It will create jobs and opportunity for all New Yorkers, grow our economy, and generate new tax revenues to pay for vital services like public safety and education.  It will create 7,500 permanent jobs, up to 14,000 construction jobs, and produce an estimated $67 million in new tax revenue to the City and the State in its first full year of operation, a figure that would grow over time. 

"Today, we have taken another major step forward in what has been a lengthy and thorough public review process.  It is our hope that the Empire State Development Corporation will vote on the General Project Plan in the near future, and once approved, it will be submitted to the Public Authorities Control Board (PACB) for their approval.  I thank the board members of the MTA, and the New York Jets, for their desire to invest in New York City's future. But ultimately, New Yorkers will be the big winners if this project becomes reality."