NY top court agrees to hear lawsuit over Willets West mall near Citi Field

New York’s highest court said Monday it will hear arguments in the long running battle over a proposed shopping mall near the Mets’ home at Citi Field.

 The state Court of Appeals said it will hear the appeal of developers of the proposed Willets West mall project some time in 2016.

 Last July, the Appellate Division, New York’s mid-level court, blocked plans for Willets West, saying it was illegal because the land, although paved over, is part of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. It said the land couldn’t be turned over to developers without approval from the state Legislature.

The mall is being proposed by the Queens Development Group – which includes the Mets and developer Related Companies -- as part of a $3 billion redevelopment of Willets Point and is backed by city government.

 Opponents include Sen. Tony Avella (D-Queens), Queens Civics Congress and numerous other groups.