MSG's Nassau Coliseum Proposal Reportedly Includes Islanders-Themed Sports Bar

Madison Square Garden Co. has "added an Islander-themed sports bar to its proposal" to redevelop Nassau Coliseum, seeking to maintain the venue's "connection to Islanders' history," according to a source cited by Arthur Staple of NEWSDAY. The source said that the bar, called "The Sports Zone," would "contain Islanders memorabilia, with well-known former Islanders donating items." MSG is committing $250M for its bid, "which would renovate the Coliseum and create a 14,500-seat arena, plus 150,000-square foot entertainment center." Former Islanders players said that they "like the idea of retaining a piece of the team's history." Hockey HOFer Bryan Trottier: "I think it's important to keep that Islanders presence." He added, "They're going to make sure the great days of the Coliseum are not forgotten." Staple notes Nassau County Exec Edward Mangano is "expected to select a bidder" before July 15. The plan also must be "approved by the county legislature" (NEWSDAY, 6/13).