The ownership map is finally clarified

So, the deceptive ownership map of the Atlantic Yards footprint finally has been clarified, showing that a reasonable chunk of Block 1129, the southeast block, is not under the developer's ownership or control.

(Note the dark colors--indicating properly privately owned--in the northwest corner of that block, and compare it to the map at bottom, where dark colors indicate property under the developer's control. Click on graphics to enlarge.)

Non-neutrality

Remember, rather than state that the control of Henry Weinstein's three properties was in dispute, deserving of a neutral color, the Forest City Ratner-produced and Empire State Development Corporation-provided map favored the developer because the color purple suggested that FCR controlled the property, thus limiting the need for eminent domain. Only asterixes indicated the dispute.

Now a court has determined Weinstein controls his property--though, of course, it's destined for condemnation and interim surface parking should the project go forward.

The map above was distributed to ESDC board members at their September 17 meeting. I finally got a copy yesterday.

An old map