Today the New York Islanders submitted their bid to develop an arena at Belmont Park. The development group is The New York Arena Partners LLC. This group includes, Sterling Project Development. It also includes current the Mets owners, and Oak View Group. An arena development company controlled by Madison Square Garden.
The deadline for requests for proposals was 2pm EST today.
New York Islanders Submit Bid for Belmont Park Arena
The Islanders said in a release, that they ““submitted a comprehensive proposal to create a world-class sports and entertainment destination at Belmont Park.” Furthermore, the Islanders say of the process. “We look forward to discussing with the Empire State Development Corporation.”
New York City Football Club and the Blumenfeld Development Group also submitted a proposal. NYCFC plays most of their home games in Yankee Stadium. Like the Islanders, NYCFC are unhappy with their current stadium. Hence, they are eager to build at Belmont Park.
The Islanders are renegotiating their 25 year Barclays contract. Due to it’s importance, this negotiation is taking place under the advisement of the Oak View Group.
The ESD recently closed the the previous RFP process. This was after four years of work. In that time they worked with the New York Cosmos to develop a 25,000 seat soccer specific stadium at the site. Blumenfeld was involved in that bidding process too.
The RFP for Belmont Park requires sports, entertainment, and hospitality as a part of all proposals. ESD said there is no timeline for a decision. Because of this, it will likely be months before one is made. Currently, the Islanders have no arena deal in place. Also there is no long term plan for their current arena. A subject covered in detail in an earlier article. In addition, the John Tavares contract is still in motion. Tavares stated that he would like to see the arena plan in place. Consequently, this process is vitally important to the future of the franchise.
Main Photo:
UNIONDALE, NY – DECEMBER 29: Pucks sit in the net during warmups prior to the game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the New York Islanders at the Nassau Coliseum on December 29, 2010 in Uniondale, New York. The Islanders defeated the Penguins 2-1 in the shootout. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
