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De Blasio Administration Unveils New Downtown Brooklyn Development Projects

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Mayor Bill de Blasio's administration announced its next wave of projects in an effort to continue economic and cultural growth in Brooklyn.

As 1010 WINS' Carol D'Auria reported, Downtown Brooklyn has improved tremendously in the last decade, but the mayor thinks it could be even better.

De Blasio Administration Unveils Development Projects For Downtown Brooklyn

In addition to the five new hotels, 5,000 new apartments and plenty of retail stores that have gone up over the years, the de Blasio administration has proposed a 21-acre greenway, more retail stores and business improvements that would attract the arts.

"This is one of the city's great success stories, and we have an incredible opportunity to take these stunning communities, parks and institutions and knit them together," the mayor said. "The investments we are making will help Downtown Brooklyn continue its rise, generate good jobs, and make this a more dynamic neighborhood to live and work."

People out and about in Downtown Brooklyn on Wednesday were mostly on board with de Blasio's plan, D'Auria reported.

"The greenway is really appealing," said Russ. "I'm a bike rider so, I would like that."

"Can't go wrong bringing arts in. I mean, arts are always an improvement every where," Jim said.

Michelle, who works in the area, said she has seen the improvements over the years.

"This is the 'Sesame Street' of Brooklyn," she said. "I like how they have the farmer's market. I really like the way it is. I like the architecture, more community initiatives."

But Michelle, and others who spoke with D'Auria are concerned about the cost of living these new developments might come with.

"As long as it doesn't really push a lot of people out," Russ said.

"I think he wants to turn it into an area that wouldn't be afforded by someone like me, by a middle class person who lives in the city and works in the city," said Robin.

Jim said the middle class is already being squeezed out as it is.

"Oh I'm already priced out of the area. I work here, I don't live here," he said.

"I used to live in Brooklyn, now I live in the Bronx because it's a lot cheaper!" Michelle said.

There is no word on how much de Blasio's plan will cost.

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