The developers of a proposed $1.5B commercial and residential development at the Nassau Hub detailed plans for a "new suburbia" that they said could "transform 60 acres of vacant blacktop around NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum into a vibrant, walkable mixed-use downtown," according to Robert Brodsky of NEWSDAY. The developers' plans "call for the construction of 500 units of housing, geared primarily toward millennials; 600,000 square feet of office and biotech research space; two hotels and 200,000 square feet of entertainment options and 'experiential retail,' stores that provide additional services for customers such as yoga and cooking classes." RXR Realty Chair & CEO Scott Rechler said that a newly-proposed 50,000- to 60,000-square-foot concert venue, to be known as Long Island Fame, would be "designed to attract locally-raised artists, performers and athletes." New York legislature is "expected to vote next month on an amended lease that, if approved, would allow the developers to jump start the planning process." But to begin construction, the developers would "need additional legislative approval once a lease agreement is reached with the county and plans are finalized with unions and surrounding communities." Rechler said that construction of the first phase of the project -- including "two state-funded parking garages with a combined 3,400 spots, the Northwell medical facility, half of the housing and the entertainment and retail options -- could begin within 18 to 24 months if the amended lease agreement is approved" (NEWSDAY, 11/28).
