Even Mr. Marty Now Says Make Atlantic Yards Cheaper

Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, who has long loudly championed the $4 billion Atlantic Yard project has done an about face. Today, he called on developer Bruce Ratner and state officials "to review the design with an eye toward paring costs so that the long delayed project is more financially viable." He says because of the crappy economy, Ratner should come up with a "sports and entertainment venue that is more economically feasible but provides the modern amenities our residents and visitors to Brooklyn demand and deserve.” Reporter Charles Bagli's reaction: "Funny, but that is pretty much what Forest City Ratner acknowledged it was doing last week." Funny, indeed. [CityRoom]