Source: Mets Have Not Hired Firm For Islanders Arena In Queens

Mets Have Expressed Interest In Building A New Arena For The Islanders Near Citi Field

The Mets' "interest in bringing the Islanders to Queens remains," but there have been "no new developments on the potential partnership," according to Katie Strang of NEWSDAY. A source contends that the Mets have "no interest in bringing" real estate firm Jones Lang LaSalle on board to assess a potential arena near Citi Field, contrary to a report claiming the two parties are working together. The source said, "Totally fictitious. ... They have not been hired and they will not be hired" (NEWSDAY.com, 6/14). FANHOUSE.com's Chris Botta in the original report cited a source as indicating that the Mets have "begun discussions" with JLL to "strategize for a potential arena in Queens." JLL reportedly has "begun work on a feasibility study for an Islanders arena at Willets Point -- the property surrounding Citi Field." The source said, "This is beyond the preliminary stage. You don't bring in a big hitter like JLL unless you're serious." Botta noted while Islanders Owner Charles Wang has "repeatedly declared that his wish is to keep the team in Nassau County, it appears he has turned a serious eye" toward Queens. Since purchasing the Islanders in '00, Wang has made "scant progress with area politicians on the development of the Lighthouse Project" and has "taken down the official website" of the development. It remains unclear if Mets Owner the Wilpons "are interested in buying the Islanders from Wang" (FANHOUSE.com, 6/14).