Paterson Moving On Aqueduct Video Slots

MICHAEL GORMLEY

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — After eight years of delay, Gov. David Paterson is putting the proposal to install video slot machines at Aqueduct back on track to bring the deficit-ravaged state up to $1 million a day in revenue and a minimum of $100 million up front.

Paterson is meeting with legislative leaders to choose a bidder for the massive projects that would bring entertainment and commercial development jobs to the thoroughbred race track in Queens.

A choice is expected within a couple of weeks.

The decision needs the approval of Paterson and the Assembly and Senate leaders.

"Every day of delay means yet another day before jobs and local business opportunities are created and operating revenues start being generated," SL Green Realty Corp. of New York City said in a prepared statement. The company said that if it wins the deal, it could begin delivering revenue to the state within eight months.

Other bidders said they expect a decision soon after months of private negotiations without any public announcements. False starts have marked the process, including the awarding of a bid to Delaware North that the state had to rescind because Wall Street's credit crunch last year temporarily dried up borrowing.