written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
21 Feb 2023
Journalist, Editorial Department
The future of Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, New York, remains uncertain amid plans for a new entertainment complex on Long Island. However, renderings released by Las Vegas Sands and New York developer RXR show the arena as part of the proposed development.
Opened in 1972, Nassau Coliseum was long home to the NHL's New York Islanders. Yet, after the team's departure in 2021, the arena's viability has come into question. This scenario is not uncommon for sports venues; for instance, Northlands Coliseum in Edmonton, Canada, struggled to remain operational after the Edmonton Oilers, its primary tenant, left.
Despite the uncertainty, the building may avoid complete demolition, as Las Vegas Sands and the current owner, Nassau Live Center LLC, are considering the arena as a concert venue. In January, Las Vegas Sands issued a press release announcing its intention to "continue developing a multi-billion-dollar flagship hotel, entertainment, and casino project" on the parking lot surrounding the arena.
Robert G. Goldstein, Chairman and CEO of Las Vegas Sands, stated, "We firmly believe that Long Island can become home to one of the best and most welcoming entertainment venues in the region. We will only be able to put forth a compelling and competitive proposal if we engage with the Long Island community and collaboratively develop a project that reflects the contributions of all stakeholders."
RXR Realty will work on the development plan for the new resort in partnership with the Long Island community. RXR's CEO and Chairman, Scott Rechler, remarked, "The message has been crystal clear: Long Island residents need a world-class entertainment center that creates well-paying jobs and new opportunities in Nassau Hub. However, the challenge of realizing this vision has always been the commercial viability of a site burdened by a half-century-old arena."
It is worth noting that revenue from the gaming industry in Pennsylvania rose by 18% in January.
