"The MTA paved the way for our future," Jets president Jay Cross says. "New York City has affirmed its place as the capital of the world, when instead of turning back the clock, we turned the corner to build the greatest sports and convention center ever conceived."

Others voicing support for the plan include Gov. George Pataki and Mayor Michael Bloomberg. "This widespread support shows the enthusiasm for this project not just here in New York City, but across the region," Bloomberg says. "This proposal is the right plan for New York's future because it provides the MTA with greater value and will help stimulate economic growth on the West Side."

"It is our hope that the Empire State Development Corp. will vote on the General Project Plan in the near future, and once approved, it will be submitted to the Public Authorities Control Board for their approval," Pataki adds. "New Yorkers will be the big winners if this project becomes reality."

"It's a wonderful decision for the city," Steve Siegel, chairman of global brokerage for CB Richard Ellis tells GlobeSt.com. "It's in the most developable site in New York City." Siegel expects the stadium project, coupled with the transportation improvements, will bring other developers to the whole area.

Opposition to the votes comes from varying fronts. Madison Square Garden officials, who had proposed a $760-million plan for the site, say, "It is obvious that the Bloomberg fix was in. It's no wonder that the MTA is in financial crisis when its own board declares that $210 million is worth more than $400 million in cash. Today's decision will only serve to galvanize the two-thirds of New Yorkers who are bitterly opposed to spending more than $1 billion in taxpayer money for football stadium that they do not want." A spokesperson says officials had no comment on whether the company plans to pursue legal action.

"This was expected. It's pretty obvious the fix was in," Clinton Coalition president John Fisher says. "But the fat lady hasn't sung yet." A spokesperson for the Regional Plan Association, which has long been opposed to the NYSCC, says, "We're right back where we were six weeks ago. It will be a long time before a shovel is put in the ground."If it wins approval, the NYSCC will be built over the rail yards located between 11th and 12th avenues and 30th and 33rd streets and is anticipated to cost upward of $1.4 billion. The NYSCC will be able to operate as a 75,000-seat stadium or a plenary hall seating up to 45,000 people when used in combination with an expanded Jacob Javits Convention Center. The Jets agreed to fund some public infrastructure. Funding for the project includes $600 million in state and city financing as well as an $900-million investment by the football team.

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GlobeSt.com UPDATE: Stadium Vote Prompts Mixed Response

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