Metropolitan Park Directs $10 Million to Jackson Heights Community Center as Part of $1 Billion Benefits Package

Metropolitan Park, the $8.1 billion sports and entertainment district led by Hard Rock International and Steve Cohen, has announced a $10 million investment in the new Jackson Heights community center of the Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens. The contribution forms part of the district’s $1 billion community benefits program and provides seed funding for the center’s $33.8 million total public-private package.

Additional funding includes $10 million in state funding from Governor Kathy Hochul, $9.3 million secured by Council Member Shekar Krishnan and the New York City Council, $2 million from U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, $1 million by Congress Member Grace Meng, $1 million in New York State funding secured by Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas, $250,000 by Assembly Member Steven Raga, and $250,000 by Assembly Member Catalina Cruz. As reported by Indian Gaming, the total reflects coordinated support across government levels.

Statements on the Investment

“On behalf of Hard Rock International, the Seminole Tribe of Florida and Jim Allen, we are proud to make this $10 million investment and to stand alongside our elected officials, community leaders, and the Variety Boys & Girls Club to help turn a long-held community vision into reality,” said Sean Caffery of Hard Rock International. “This investment can make a difference and transform the lives of New York residents and their families for generations.”

“Metropolitan Park is about creating opportunities for Queens, and that commitment doesn’t stop at the boundaries of our site,” said Michael Sullivan of Metropolitan Park. “Jackson Heights, Corona and East Elmhurst are some of the most vibrant communities in New York City and we heard loud and clear from our neighbors that they need a new community center to meet the area’s growing needs.”

Extending Benefits Past Project Boundaries

The funding structure shows how large developments can address specific neighborhood demands outside their immediate footprint. For operators and investors, it supplies a direct example of converting community benefit obligations into concrete local infrastructure that aligns public officials, residents, and project sponsors around shared priorities.

Reporting: Indian Gaming

Generated by SCCG’s automated editorial system from published source reporting. SCCG Management holds editorial responsibility.