ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) -New York’s top court says the state can use eminent domain to force homeowners and businesses to sell their properties for a massive development in Brooklyn that includes a new arena for the New Jersey Nets.
In a 6-1 ruling Tuesday, the Court of Appeals says the Empire State Development Corp.’s finding that the area was blighted was enough to justify taking the land.
A group of tenants and owners claim the seizure is unconstitutional. They say developer Bruce Ratner’s proposed $4.9 billion, 22-acre Atlantic Yards project mainly enriches private interests, while the state constitution requires public use for taking land.
Ratner’s proposed development includes office towers, apartments and a new arena for the NBA’s Nets.
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