Paterson opposed eminent domain as state senator

Incoming Governor David Paterson opposed the use of eminent domain as a state senator, leaving many in the real estate industry wondering how he will handle big city projects like Atlantic Yards in Brooklyn and Willets Point in Queens. At a 2005 rally outside City Hall, he called for a moratorium on eminent domain. At the time, Paterson’s Harlem constituents were worried about Columbia University’s expansion. Steven Spinola, president of the Real Estate Board of New York, said he was not too concerned about the question of eminent domain now. “It would clearly be a mistake for the state to give up one of its powers to get public improvement projects off the ground,” Spinola said.