NHL

Devils challenge comments by Newark mayor

The Devils owner is responding to criticisms leveled by Newark Mayor Cory Booker over the National Hockey League team’s deal with the city.

Wednesday, Booker accused Jeff Vanderbeek of reneging on a promise to build a community center on the Prudential Center arena site. Booker’s comments came a day after arbitrators ruled in favor of the Devils in a long-running dispute with the city over arena parking revenue.

Vanderbeek tells The Associated Press on Friday that under a 2007 agreement the team wasn’t required to build the center. The site is now occupied by a Marriott Hotel.

Housing authority head Keith Kinnard said he signed the agreement at a time when the arena deal was in doubt and the Devils were threatening to move to Kansas City.

Community activists were planning a protest in front of the arena before Friday night’s Nets game.

Booker couldn’t immediately be reached for comment.