Hicksville to provide practice space to New York Islanders

  • 2015-07-20
The New York Islanders, who play professional ice hockey, will have an office and practice space in Hicksville.

Nassau County officials have recently approved an agreement with the organization that asks the team to put $5.1 million into improving Cantiague Park, located in Hicksville, where they will train. Nassau County's Rules Committee agreed unanimously to allow a permit agreement between the team and the county.

Edward Mangano, the county executive, said the agreement will help the Brooklyn-based team to retain its connection to Long Island.

According to the terms of the agreement, the park's skating rink will be expanded and renovated. On top of this, the team will be obligated to hold autograph sessions, and regular practice sessions there. The last time the Islanders played in the Nassau Coliseum was in April.

Nassau County is giving the Islanders a 10-year license, with an option, mutually agreed upon, for two renewals of five years each. In return, the county will receive a minimum of $200,000 per year in revenue and fees.

Most of the money the team will put into the improvements comes from funds it has already paid Nassau, when it attempted to redevelopment the Coliseum, as well as the land surrounding it.

Team officials could work with a flyer printing company on a mailer for residents, letting them know the team will be practicing in Hicksville.