Now that Atlantic Yards has stalled and Columbia’s expansion has gone to court, the focus of eminent domain activists shifts to Willets Point in Queens. The 45-acre area employs thousands of highly-skilled workers, and generates billions of dollars in economic activity and millions in tax revenue for the city – yet for decades, the city has refused to supply the area with basic municipal services like garbage collection, plumbing and electricity.
One of the businesses most active in opposing eminent domain for private gain is Bono’s Sawdust, a family business owned by Jake Bono. Jeremiah’s Vanishing New York has tracked the Bonos’ plight for some time with an interview, photos and video.
