It is "only a matter of time before the Islanders submit their proposal for a new arena at Belmont Park," as New York state yesterday afternoon "announced its long-awaited" RFP following a period of public discussion, according to Brett Cyrgalis of the N.Y. POST. The Isles' ownership group was "not expected to submit a proposal immediately but surely will once it has analyzed the specifications outlined by the state, which owns the land." Groups submitting a proposal will "have until Sept. 28." The site is "two parcels of currently underused parking lots adjacent to the race track, approximately 36 acres total." During preliminary discussions, the Islanders have "reportedly been advised by Oak View Group." Cyrgalis notes the Isles are "likely to opt-out of their 25-year lease at Barclays Center in January" (N.Y. POST, 8/1). On Long Island, Robert Pozarycki noted this is the "latest chapter in ongoing efforts to find new uses for underutilized properties surrounding the spacious Belmont Park." For years, areas surrounding Belmont Park have been the "subject of redevelopment rumors" (LONGISLANDPRESS.com, 7/31).
