Judge dismisses suit to block Belmont Park renovation

A New York Supreme Court judge dismissed a lawsuit that sought to block the renovation of Belmont Park.

The suit, brought by two New York residents, challenged a $455 million loan from the state to finance the project. The suit was filed against the New York Racing Association, the state and other parties.

Judge Michael Lynch said in his order that the loan, which had been approved by the state legislature, does not violate the New York constitution.

“Horse-racing fans who attend Belmont Park are no different than football fans who attend the Buffalo Bills stadium,” Lynch wrote. “They are part of the community, and their ability to enjoy the sport of their choice improves their quality of life. Considering plaintiff’s claim that the horse racing industry is in economic straits, it is manifest that the legislature’s funding plan to modernize Belmont Park and repurpose Aqueduct Racetrack effects a reasoned consolidation to assure that a horse racing venue, distinct from the Saratoga track, will continue to exist in this state. Of course, the legislature has expressly found that the appropriation is in the interests of the state.”

Lynch also wrote that “it cannot be overemphasized the state owns the land.”

Patrick McKenna, vice president of communications for NYRA, said in an emailed statement, “The construction of a new Belmont Park will create thousands of jobs, generate billions in economic activity and secure the future of thoroughbred racing in New York State. This decision recognizes the importance of this transformational project, which will deliver the world-class Belmont Park that New Yorkers deserve.”

In an emailed statement, PETA senior vice president Kathy Guillermo said, "PETA is not a party to this lawsuit but has been watching it closely and hopes the plaintiffs will look at all legal options. As PETA has exposed, Belmont Park is among the deadliest in the U.S., with 24 horse fatalities this year alone. New Yorkers have no appetite to watch this cruel spectacle and haven’t for years, so it’s unlikely a renovated grandstand will attract the public. The state should stop supporting this private industry that can’t even keep its athletes alive."