Flatter: There is a lot to like about the new Belmont Park

Key Points:

• Belmont Park in Elmont, N.Y., has undergone a $450 million taxpayer-funded renovation, replacing the old grandstand with a modern, bright, and airy facility that has received positive early impressions from visitors and media.
• The new grandstand features open ground floors with restaurants and bars offering good track views, tiered seating on upper floors, and a large paddock area, enhancing the spectator experience compared to previous versions and other racetracks.
• While the new Belmont Park is praised for its design and atmosphere, concerns remain about its capacity to handle large crowds during major events like the Belmont Stakes and the 2027 Breeders’ Cup, given the smaller square footage of the grandstand.
• The venue’s transition to a Tapeta surface and the bright, glass exterior mark a departure from the traditional feel of the old Belmont and nearby Aqueduct, with future success likely dependent on betting handle and patron acceptance.
• The article reflects on the historical significance of Belmont Park's past grandstands and expresses cautious optimism that the new facility will eventually be embraced by racing fans, despite nostalgic attachments to the old structures.