All eyes will turn to Churchill Downs Saturday, as horse racing enthusiasts gear up for the Kentucky Derby, the first event of the Triple Crown.

But closer to home, hundreds of workers are readying Long Island's own glorious racing centerpiece for its moment in the winner's circle. 

Once it's complete, the ongoing $575 million remake of Belmont Park will revitalize the 400 acres of land there and hopefully establish new standards for horse safety. Its impact is likely to ripple through the region, providing an important economic jolt, jobs and new entertainment options.

The promise and possibility of Belmont, one of the region's gems, became particularly clear during a recent visit to explore the construction of the grandstand and grounds across the vast space.

The four new tracks — one synthetic, two turf and one dirt — are in place, awaiting final touches. A new tunnel will allow fans into the complex's infield for the first time — an infield........

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