Coney Island Area Gains Jobs

The economies of New York's Coney Island and neighboring Brighton Beach are growing faster than in the rest of the city.

That's according to a report by state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli.

In 2010, the area gained 27,530 private-sector jobs in such areas as transportation, education, retail and health care. That's a 7.1 percent gain, compared to just 0.9 percent for the rest of New York City.

From 2000 to 2008, the number of businesses in the area grew by 21.4 percent, compared to 5.5 percent for the rest of the city.

The city's renewal plan for the Coney Island amusement district is contributing to the boom.

The opening in 2010 of Luna Park created nearly 240 jobs. And this summer another 400 jobs were created by the new thrill ride Scream Zone and other boardwalk attractions.