WILLETS POINT, Queens (PIX11) – The plan to build a soccer-specific stadium for New York City FC in Queens is now one step closer to becoming reality.
The City Planning Commission on Wednesday approved a redevelopment proposal for Willets Point, which includes NYCFC’s proposed 25,000-seat stadium. The stadium would be built across from Citi Field and open in 2027, according to MLSsoccer.com.
The proposal will now go to a full vote in the New York City Council before construction can begin.
NYCFC also released new renderings of the proposed stadium on Wednesday.
The Willets Point redevelopment proposal also includes 80,000 square feet of nearby retail space and 2,500 affordable housing units.
“NYCFC committed 10 years ago to build our stadium in the five boroughs, and today's vote gets us one step closer to bringing this promise to life in Queens – the World’s Borough will be our home for The World’s Game,” NYCFC Vice Chairman Marty Edelman said in a statement.
NYCFC currently plays its games at Yankee Stadium. The MLS franchise hosts the Portland Timbers for its home opener on Saturday.
Finn Hoogensen is a digital journalist who has covered local news for more than five years. He has been with PIX11 News since 2022. See more of his work here.