New York City Council Votes in Favor of National Tennis Center Upgrades
The New York City Council has voted in favor of the United States Association’s (USTA) plan to improve the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (NTC) in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The plan will ensure the NTC remains a top public recreational facility and world-class spectator venue and also continues to be an economic catalyst for Queens and the City of New York. By a 47-1 margin, the City Council approved the legislation, which will enable the USTA to replace and renovate aging, out-of-date infrastructure and facilities that have reached the end of their useful lives. The City Council vote was the culmination of a public review process that also included the local community boards, Queens Borough President, City Planning, and the State Legislature.
“We are very pleased that the City Council passed the legislation,” said David A. Haggerty, chairman of the board, CEO and president of the USTA. “The updates and improvements to the NTC will enhance the usage of the tennis center for local residents, visitors and professional and recreational tennis players while also preserving the US Open Tennis Championships as a world renowned event.”
In exchange for the 0.68 acres of parkland it will add as part of its improvement plan for the NTC, the USTA will return to the city a portion–1.56 acres–of its currently leased NTC land. The USTA will also launch an increased community outreach program and has made a long-term commitment to fund capital improvements in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, and to help establish the FMCP Alliance, which will be dedicated to improving all aspects of the Park moving forward.
“We are confident that in partnership with the local Queens communities and elected officials, we will ensure a better Flushing Meadows Corona Park and National Tennis Center,” said Gordon Smith, executive director and COO of the USTA.
