Overview
- Belmont Park reopened on Friday with a limited, sold-out opening-day crowd of 6,000 as final construction and finishing work continue.
- The $555 million project was funded by a $455 million state loan to the New York Racing Association and $100 million from NYRA.
- The century-old 1905 grandstand was replaced by a smaller, stadium-style facility with 31 suites, a sports bar, a giant infield video screen, and seating sized for regular days rather than past peak crowds.
- Designers prioritized safety with a new track footing and an artificial surface intended to reduce horse breakdowns, a focus officials said responds to public concern about animal welfare.
- State officials project about $155 million in annual local economic output and $10 million in tax revenue from the site, but critics warn of long-term attendance declines and competition from new downstate casinos.