Probe into Aqueduct decision underway

The speculation surrounding Governor David Paterson’s award of the Aqueduct Raceway contract to Aqueduct Entertainment Group, a politically connected conglomerate, is mounting, as news has emerged on WPIX that federal investigators are launching a formal investigation to determine whether there was any wrongdoing during the selection process. Although Paterson has vehemently denied reports of any indiscretion, insiders have criticized the selection and the New York Times is allegedly about to unleash a damning story on the contract selection. Jeffrey Levine, whose company, Levine Builders, is a partner in AEG, said that rumors of favoritism are false. “Like all bidders, we adhered to the bid process as outlined by the State of New York and were selected on that basis,” Levine said in a written statement. “Aqueduct Entertainment Group won because our bid offered the best value for New York’s taxpayers and the best plan for the residents of Queens.”