Eight finalists chosen for downtown Queens site.

Eight powerhouse developers are in the running to carve out a new neighborhood in downtown Queens.

Vornado Realty Trust, Forest City Ratner Companies, the Related Companies, General Growth Properties, Inc., Rosenshein Associates, LCOR Incorporated and Sage Hotel Corporation, TDC Development & Construction Company, Muss Development LLC, The Macerich Company and AvalonBay Corporation and the Westfield Corporation have all been selected as finalists for the redevelopment of the 75-acre Willets Point district in northern Queens.

"Willets Point and the surrounding neighborhood presents challenging, but potentially highly rewarding development opportunities," said Economic Development Corporation president Andrew M. Alper in announcing the finalists.

"With the new Mets Stadium project moving forward, the area presents even greater development potential. The eight proposals selected all demonstrate a clear understanding of the Mayor's standards for superior, sustainable urban development and an affinity for the needs and concerns of the community."

All eight finalists were selected by the EDC based on their responses to a request for expressions of interest issued in 2004.

RFEI responses focused on creating synergy between a mix of exciting uses, such as a hotel and exhibition center, quality retail and entertainment uses and space for community organizations and cultural institutions. The goal of the RFP is to select a development partner or partners to implement a viable, strategic redevelopment plan to be outlined in the upcoming environmental and public review processes.

Over the past year, EDC has conducted environmental, engineering and soil studies, along with infrastructure analysis and site surveys of the area. In the next few months, EDC will select a consultant to prepare the Environmental Impact Statement and will begin the public review process for the redevelopment effort.

The targeted RFP contains specific guidelines for proposals. Proposals must create an experience unique to the New York metropolitan area, feature a vibrant mix of pedestrian friendly land uses and urban design and superior architecture, attract visitors from throughout the region, include land uses that result in a mixed-use development that connects to adjacent communities and area assets and be sensitive to the existing natural environment.

Proposals must also generate significant job creation and tax revenues.

The RFP is the next step in the implementation of the Downtown Flushing Development Framework that resulted from a year-long collaboration among local business leaders, community groups, City and State agencies and local elected officials.

Responses to the RFP may include suggestions for redevelopment of the entire 75-acre site, or propose redevelopment of a portion of the site.

The Willets Point Peninsula is zoned for heavy industrial uses, but proposals that require rezoning will be considered. Responses are due on May 5, 2006.