CupHolders
Really Fries My Bananas!
- Aug 8, 2006
- 7,486
- 5,780
Yeah I heard all that. I'm still skeptical. People are going to fly from Europe and Asia into NYC and then take the LIRR or an uber to freaking Long Island to go shopping? I guess some may but I think it is a real stretch. Bicester is very unique and I'm not sure that can be replicated in Belmont. I think people trivialize the importance of the Islanders in this project. They will be the anchor tenant in a $1B arena. If they are drawing 6k a night it will have a very negative impact on developing the surrounding area (bars, restaurants and hotels).
The future of the Islanders remaining in NY is riding on:
1. Retail (gulp)
2. Islanders anchoring their own building (gulp)
3. The arena being able to draw shows/concerts competing with 5 other arenas (gulp)
Maybe investing in all 3 will keep this thing afloat. Obviously Malkin and his group are highly qualified and are not going into this uninformed. I'm just skeptical, that's all. I'm an Islander fan after all!
I’m 30/35 minutes away from Woodbury Commons. What you described above, is EXACTLY what happens there. Busses (some chartered) come up from NYC loaded with tourists and empty suitcases to buy up a ridiculous amount.
The past few years there have been major renovations to stores, parking and amenities. Including touch screen signage (Hate those by the way, whatever happened to orange arrow with “you are here?”). Information is broadcasted in Mandrin, Spanish and many other Languages. You have a rediculous amount of different Language speakers. Really does have the feel of an international event.
The Malkin Villages by my understanding, are “higher end” Woodbury Commons. You’re going to have people shop, maybe attend some horse races then head back to the City or Hamptons. This can happen even during the NHL off-season.