THIS FROM NY1 (ny1.com)

After hours of delays, the $4 billion Atlantic Yards project was finally given the go-ahead by a key state board Wednesday.

Republicans, Governor George Pataki and State Senate Majority leader Joe Bruno, control two of the three votes on the Public Authorities Control Board. Both were known supporters of the plan.

The third member of the board, Democrat Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, had refused to approve the development, citing lingering concerns over funding. However, Silver changed his mind and cast his ballot in favor of the project at the board meeting Wednesday.

“I have voted for it today because I am satisfied it meets all the necessary criteria under the PACB statute,” said Silver in a statement. “Furthermore, I am pleased the developer is committed to addressing numerous community concerns through several specific actions that will result in significant neighborhood improvements.”

Silver’s vote against the West Side Stadium plan last year effectively killed that project.

A unanimous vote by the board was required.

Developer Bruce Ratner’s plan includes office and apartment towers, plus a sports arena for the Nets basketball team. Under the plan, the state and city would each contribute $100 million to the project. It would also be funded by billions of dollars in bonds that the state will not be liable for.

News that the Atlantic Yards project was approved by the state Public Authorities Control Board was greeted by cheers from the community group ACORN…