Coney Island, April 24, 2007
Coney Island Development Corporation (CIDC) announced that Lynn B. Kelly has been selected unanimously to serve as President, the organization’s first official employee. As President, Kelly is charged with managing the day-to-day activities of CIDC and will oversee the implementation of the City’s Strategic Plan for Coney Island and the management and allocation of approximately $111 million in capital funding associated with the plan. The Strategic Plan, unveiled by Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg in September 2005, provides a roadmap for Coney Island’s development into a year-round entertainment district with a strengthened residential community.
"CIDC could not have a better partner to lead Coney Island’s redevelopment than Lynn Kelly, whose passion for Coney Island’s uniqueness and vibrancy is unmatched,” said CIDC Chairman Joshua J. Sirefman. “With Lynn’s dedication, we look forward to continuing our efforts to make Coney Island a year-round, world-class destination with an enhanced amusement district and strengthened residential community.”
Kelly is currently Vice President for Special Projects at the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC). Kelly first joined NYCEDC in 2001 and has managed a portfolio of over 20 strategic planning, commercial development projects and land sales in Brooklyn and Staten Island. Earlier, Kelly spent five years as Deputy Director to the Art Commission of the City of New York, a mayoral design review agency that was responsible for reviewing and approving works of art, architecture and landscape architecture in New York City. Kelly is a graduate of New York University’s Wagner School of Public Service and New York University’s College of Arts and Science.
" It is a privilege to help lead the Bloomberg Administrations efforts to revitalize this legendary New York neighborhood,” said Kelly. “Coney Island’s successes in the past are directly connected to the bright future the area can look forward to as the Strategic Plan is implemented. Working with the community and local leaders, CIDC and its Board will ensure that the Strategic Plan will create a destination for all New Yorkers and visitors to enjoy."
"Lynn Kelly has the qualifications and skills necessary to develop America's favorite playground - the one and only Coney Island - into one of America's favorite neighborhoods," said Borough President Marty Markowitz. "We're lucky to have her at the helm of the revitalization efforts that will help Brooklyn maintain its unrivaled diversity, create new jobs and recreational facilities for local residents, and ensure that Brooklynites and visitors alike enjoy Coney Island's bright future."
"Lynn Kelly has an excellent history of serving Coney Island and it has been a privilege and a pleasure to work with her towards the revitalization of Coney Island," said Council Member Domenic M. Recchia, Jr. "Lynn has proven time and time again her steadfast commitment to Coney Island and its people. I congratulate her on her new role as the President of CIDC. I know she will serve Coney Island well and I look forward to continuing our historic work together."
As part of the Strategic Plan for Coney Island, CIDC and the City are working with the community to a rezone effort of the area that aims to strengthen the amusement core, while creating new jobs and residential opportunities throughout the community. Most recently, a Request for Qualification was issued for landscape, architectural and consulting design services for Steeplechase Plaza, a new civic and amusement destination in the heart of Coney Island. Earlier this year, the City's Department of Housing Preservation and Development and NYCEDC designated Coney Island Commons LLC to develop a mixed-use complex with more than 150 residential units, more than 75 percent of which will be affordable to low- and middle-income families, and a state-of-the-art community center to be operated by the YMCA. CIDC has also engaged The Doe Fund to provide supplemental sanitation and clean up services in and around the amusement zone.
About NYCEDC
New York City Economic Development Corporation is the City’s primary vehicle for promoting economic growth in each of the five boroughs. NYCEDC’s mission is to stimulate growth through expansion and redevelopment programs that encourage investment, generate prosperity and strengthen the City’s competitive position. NYCEDC serves as an advocate to the business community by building relationships with companies that allow them to take advantage of New York City’s many opportunities.
