Islanders to return part time to Nassau Coliseum

NEW YORK (FOX5NY.COM) - New York Islanders fans have been waiting for this announcement: Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Monday that the Islanders will split their home games for at least the next three seasons between the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale and Barclays Center in Brooklyn while a new state-of-the-art arena is constructed at Belmont Park.

Both arenas are operated by Brooklyn Sports and Entertainment.

"Our goal in the coming season is to make all of the games on Long Island feel like the playoffs," CEO Brett Yormark said. "If the team wants to play more than just half their games here we encourage it and welcome them back."

Fast-track renovations and modifications including improving the facility's ice-making capabilities will be done to meet the league's specifications.

Fans say returning is the revitalization Long Island needs.

Officials said the Islanders first game back home could be as early as September or October. However where they'll hold playoff games is still undecided and will ultimately be up to the NHL.