UBS Arena Opens, But Lawmaker Has 'Questions And Concerns'

ELMONT, NY — The New York Islanders have their new home. Construction was completed at the UBS Arena in time for Saturday's night opener against Calgary. The official ribbon cutting was scheduled for Friday.

There is plenty of excitement within the community, but one local lawmaker is not joining the celebration.

Nassau County Legislator Carrie Solages, who has "many questions and concerns," will not attend the grand opening of the venue on the Belmont Park grounds.

Solages (D- Lawrence) was in favor of the project that was to be favorable for local residents, the developer and the county.

"Unfortunately, over the last few years, this project seemed to have been pushed through by former Gov. Cuomo at the expense of local residents, who have been forced to contend with traffic, garbage, pollution and construction noise at all hours of the day – all while promises of community benefits remain thus far unfulfilled," Solages said in a statement.

Patch was unable to get a comment from an arena spokesperson.

As part of the new arena, The LIRR this week unveiled a new Elmont station to alleviate congestion at the Belmont Race Track stop.

While the legislator, who represents Elmont, is disappointed with the plan put forth thus far, he is hopeful that there can still be success for all parties.

"I look forward to working with Gov. Hochul, my colleagues in government, community leaders and residents to ensure that Elmont and the surrounding communities are not left out of the benefits of this project," Solages said. "However, until this happens, I cannot support this project or any of the businesses affiliated with it."