But the deal had run into fierce opposition from local lawmakers who criticized providing subsidies to one of the world’s most valuable companies. Amazon said the deal would have created more than 25,000 jobs.
Amazon’s decision is a major blow for Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio, who had set aside their differences to lure the giant tech company to New York.
As recently as Wednesday, the governor had brokered a meeting between Amazon executives and union leaders who had been resistant to the deal, according to two people briefed on the sit down. The meeting ended without any compromise on the part of Amazon, according to the people.
State Sen. Michael Gianaris, a vocal critic who was chosen for a state board with the power to veto the deal, said the decision revealed Amazon’s unwillingness to work with the Queens community it had wanted to join.
“Like a petulant child, Amazon insists on getting its way or takes its ball and leaves,” said Gianaris, a Democrat, whose neighborhood includes Long Island City. “The only thing that happened here is that a community that was going to be profoundly affected by their presence started asking questions.”
“Even by their own words,” he added pointing to their statement, “Amazon admits they will grow their presence in New York without their promised subsidies. So what was all this really about?”
This article originally appeared in The New York Times.