EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) - Officials say the $2.8 billion in financing needed for a massive retail and entertainment center in the Meadowlands sports complex has been secured, clearing the biggest hurdle to completion of the long-delayed project.

East Rutherford and the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority officials say work can now move forward on the American Dream megamall.

The project been plagued by financial problems since the first contract was awarded in 2003.

The immense structure, once called "the ugliest damn building in New Jersey" by Republican Gov. Chris Christie, has sat unfinished between MetLife Stadium and the New Jersey Turnpike for years.

It's hoped the complex could open by the spring of 2019.

It's planned to feature high-end retail, a water park, indoor rollercoasters and a skating rink.

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