New Architects For Atlantic Yards?

from threecee's flickr

After firing famed architect Frank Gehry in an effort to cut costs, the developer of the controversial Atlantic Yards project is in talks with the man who designed the Freedom Tower. Architect David Childs told the Brooklyn Paper that Atlantic Yards builder Bruce Ratner asked him to give plans for the proposed basketball arena a "once over," and also discussed hiring him to construct one of the 16 skyscrapers that Ratner wants to build on the site.

"Bruce wants to bring in different architects, good architects, to do each of the residential buildings ... That's something I'd be very excited about. Talking to Bruce, it's clear that he wants to do this right. He really does."

Despite years of delays and legal battles, the project seems to be moving forward since a judge ruled that state officials can use eminent domain to evict Brooklynites who live in the footprint of the development. Since that decision, officials have closed the streets to prepare for construction—making life miserable for project opponent Dan Goldstein. The Prospect Heights resident, who was offered an eminent domain buyout of $80,000 less than he paid for his condo in 2003, told the Post he must now announce all of his visitors with state security guards.

“I've been told I can’t have visitors unless I give advanced notice," said Goldstein, who the state wants out by April 13. "I live in New York City and pay taxes, so there's no way that I should be treated differently. I actually don’t feel like I live in New York City or a free country anymore." Ratner has announced that the official Atlantic Yards groundbreaking will take place tomorrow. Goldstein, and other project opponents, are planning a protest with featuring bobbleheads.