The battle lines have been drawn over a controversial redevelopment project called Innovation Queens. If approved, it would be the largest rezoning in Queens County history.

The $2 billion project focuses on rezoning five square blocks in Astoria near Kaufman Studios. The project would bring nearly 3,000 apartments to the area, as well as 200,000 square feet of retail space and two acres of open space. 

“That's permanently public open space with community amenities like large open lawns, a playground and a small soccer field,” explained Jamison Divoll of Silverstein Properties, one of the project's developers. “Lastly, we're proposing 950 parking spaces in underground garages, which was reduced [by] about 450 spaces from our previous proposal, now down to the minimum allowed by zoning.”

Ahead of a City Council subcommittee hearing on Wednesday, supporters of the project rallied outside of City Hall with labor unions. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards joined them. 

He initially opposed the project back in August because the plan did not include enough affordable housing. Since then, the developers increased the number of affordable units from 25% to 40% of apartments created, including 500 units for people who are considered extremely low income.

Richards has since changed his mind.

"Of course if we can have more and get more we should get more, but the bottom line for those who say 500 doesn't matter, go to the freaking homeless shelters and ask folks in the homeless shelter if those units would matter,” Richards said.

Council member Julie Won, who represents the area, does not support the project. 

She fears the luxury development would inevitably raise rents in the area.

Won said she will not vote in favor of the rezoning unless the developers up the number of affordable units to 55%. 

"We are no longer willing to accept the crumbs to say this is enough. Our community deserves better,” Won said.

The rezoning proposal is expected to go in front of the full City Council for a vote by next month. 

Traditionally, members vote in favor of the council member who represents the area.