The Freedom Plaza proposal, led by Soloviev Group in partnership with Mohegan, is positioning itself as a front‐runner among eight competing bids for one of New York State’s three downstate casino licences. The plan would redevelop a 6.3‐acre site between East 38th and 41st Streets east of First Avenue into a mixed‐use complex featuring affordable housing, nearly five acres of public parkland and a subterranean casino.
Set to cost more than US$11.1 billion, Freedom Plaza would include two residential towers offering 1,049 units, of which 513 would be affordable, two hotel towers, a Democracy Museum, retail and dining spaces, a daycare facility, and a large public green space. Developers say the project will generate around 17,000 full‐ and part‐time union jobs during construction and operations.
Supporters argue the proposal brings benefits that exceed other casino bids. The housing affordability component is the largest pledged on such an integrated site in Manhattan, and the nearly five‐acre park would substantially increase green space in Community District 6, a district noted for having amongst the lowest parkland per capita in the borough.
Yet strong opposition has also emerged. Local residents, including those near Tudor City and Murray Hill, voiced concerns during public hearings over traffic congestion—especially along First Avenue and the FDR Drive—noise, public safety, and the proximity of a casino to schools, hospitals, and dense housing.
Community Board 6 has formally opposed the land-use zoning changes the project would require—expressing worry that the projected benefits may not offset the strain on infrastructure and quality of life in the neighbourhood. The board’s resolution against the casino passed by a wide margin.
Freedom Plaza developers have sought to build local buy-in. The proposal includes a shareholder opportunity: up to 12% of public equity in the gaming facility would be allocated to eligible New York City residents. Preference would also be given to city and state pension funds. A “Community Reinvestment Fund” would receive at least 2% of annual gaming profits for neighbourhood priorities.
The project’s executive summary emphasises sustainability, economic growth and community assets. It proposes a carbon-neutral design, retail and food and beverage outlets, family services, cultural amenities, and a park designed by prominent landscape architects. It aims to address both housing and quality of environment in Midtown East.
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