[tmugavero]

Austin's traffic is bad for sure. Dallas then perhaps, which at least has a rail going north (also bad traffic). That said, Queens absolutely values diversity. They mom and pop shops getting pushed out all over the city is creating a negative feedback loop. Some city officials and politicians may like the tax, but there are some that are also protective of the culture. It's a complex issue, but ultimately, New York is not an easy place to walk into. Lots of people to make happy on a deal this size.

[coredog64]

Long Island City is practically indistinguishable from Manhattan these days. Those mom and pop shops are going to be pushed out regardless of whether or not HQ2 is in LIC. At best, current residents have a reprieve that can be measured in months or two years at the outside.