Silicon Valley has long held the crown as America's tech capital. But New York is closing the gap. Amazon recently announced plans to build half of its second headquarters in the Big Apple. And as CGTN's Nick Harper reports, it might only take a "New York minute" before Silicon Valley loses its throne.

New York, home to Wall Street, Times Square, Fifth Avenue shopping. And now, tech.

When looking for a headquarters for his start-up, Stuart Feffer opted for New York. The company, which provides software for sensors in the autonomous car industry, didn't feel Silicon Valley was the place to be.

STUART FEFFER, CO-FOUNDER & CEO REALITY A.I. "There are a lot of startups here. It's also a great place to recruit talent, we have a number of universities from which to recruit."

A tech ecosystem study shows the number of tech jobs in New York between 2006 and 2016 has grown by 30 percent, with around 76,000 positions added. And that number is likely to climb with the addition of Amazon. Taking advantage of generous government incentives, the online retail giant has invested millions of dollars in several New York locations in recent years, culminating with this announcement last month.

JOHB SCHOETTLER, VP AMAZON GLOBAL REAL ESTATE "And I am here to confirm that New York will be home to one of Amazon's new headquarters."

"Amazon is a scam."

New York's political leaders have been criticized for offering billions in tax breaks and grants to attract Amazon. And some residents in New York's Long Island City, the location of the company's new hub, say Amazon will strain the city's aging public transit system and increase gentrification.

SABRINA RICH, STUDENT "This is a working class, people of color neighborhood and people are just going to be pushed out of their homes because Amazon employees are going to be moving in."

But the New York City government has promised to invest $180 million into transit, infrastructure and housing. And some analysts say a robust tech sector will help strengthen the economy and improve job prospects for communities like Long Island City.

EMILY RAIMES, VP MOODY'S INVESTOR SERVICE "Bring some economic diversity, New York City is so concentrated in finance that this actually brings some diversity to New York City's employment base."

Google is also reportedly considering a major expansion in the city, with room for over 12,000 new workers.

NICK HARPER NEW YORK "Startups here attracted $11.5 billion in venture capital last year. And with the Big Apple also able to draw the big names, New York is clearly targeting tech and ramping up its rivalry with Silicon Valley. Nick Harper, CGTN, New York"