Report: Amazon Narrows List Of Locations For 2nd Headquarters, NYC A Finalist?
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Governor Andrew Cuomo is pushing hard to land Amazon's second corporate headquarters here in New York.
And he says he's even willing to change his name to make a deal, CBS2's Dick Brennan reported Monday.
Update: Amazon Pulls Out Of NYC For HQ2
Cuomo was joking about his efforts, but the state's proposal is detailed and serious. The question is, is it enough to get Amazon to come to Long Island City?
Amazon is said to be coming down to the wire in its choice for a second headquarters. The governor says he's all in.
"Anything else I can think of that will get us over the top, anything they want named Amazon, I'll change my name to Amazon Cuomo if that's what it takes because it would be a great economic boost," Cuomo said.
The Wall Street Journal reports Amazon is ready to split its new headquarters between two locations. There are three finalists -- Newtown Creek in Long Island City, Crystal City in Virginia, and Dallas.
Newtown Creek is known more for its pollution. It was even named a Superfund site. But Gov. Cuomo told CBS2's Marcia Kramer he's put together a strong incentive plan to win the Amazon bid.
"Some states have put together crazy incentive packages. Some states say they have put together as much as $7 billion. But we put together a very strong incentive package and we've had great meetings. It has been very positive," Cuomo said.
MORE: Amazon Delays Decision On Next Headquarters: NYC, Newark In The Running
Amazon headquarters here could bring tens of thousands of jobs, and billions of dollars in investments.
"I think it's a good idea. It's a good idea," said Chris Marshall of Mount Vernon. "More jobs, definitely."
"I think it will be a great idea. At least the unemployment rate would go down," added Franklin Palmer of Long Island City.
But some critics say New York should not give away tax credits to the retail giant, fearing it would further hurt small businesses while driving up the cost of housing and put even more strains on mass transit.
Amazon would not comment on reports that it's ready to divide its new headquarters. It's not clear when the company will come to a decision.
