Longshot Lawsuit Targeting Belmont Funding Falls Flat

A longshot legal maneuver aimed at halting funding of an overhaul of Belmont Park has fallen flat, which will allow the project that already has started construction to continue forward. In October 2023 a New York court dismissed a lawsuit brought by plaintiffs aligned with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals that sought to block a state loan to fund the New York Racing Association's reconstruction of Belmont. On Jan. 9 the State of New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Third Judicial Department also dismissed the lawsuit, finding that the case had become moot. NYRA applauded the decision that upholds the $455 million state loan that is subject to a repayment agreement. "The transformation of Belmont Park will secure the future of Thoroughbred racing in New York State, create thousands of good jobs and drive tourism to Long Island and the region for decades to come. NYRA is pleased with the court's decision, and we look forward to opening a world-class racing and entertainment destination in 2026." The court noted that cases can become moot under the passage of time and specifically cited cases involving construction projects that have progressed toward completion as examples of cases that can become moot. "Extensive work has been performed that could not be undone without substantial hardship as the former quarter-mile long grandstand has been demolished," the court noted in its Jan. 9 decision. "Belying any claim that the construction has been undeeraken without authority or in bad faith, NYRA has obtained all the necessary regulatory approvals." Clerk of Court Robert D. Mayberger signed the order dismissing the appeal without costs.