New York Chinatown fears impact of $8bn casino development, calling it ‘predatory project’

Residents warn project could worsen gambling addiction and raise rents, while developers promise jobs

On Main Street in Flushing's Chinatown, shoppers weave between fruit stands, restaurants and family-run businesses that have served the New York City neighborhood for decades. But behind the bustle, many residents fear the working-class immigrant community is under threat from an $8bn casino development that could displace thousands of renters and force small businesses to close.

A predatory project is being dumped in our community that disproportionately harms our people," said Jack Hu, 37, a Flushing resident and member of the No Casino in Flushing Meadows Corona Park campaign. This community is really upset about this project and how it was pushed through without our consent."