More details continue to be released from potential bidders of a New York City casino license.
Last week, developers of the Freedom Plaza project released renderings of what their Manhattan-based casino project would look like.
The Soloviev Group’s project would sit on six acres of vacant land near the United Nations. Plans for Freedom Plaza include a casino along with a five-acre public park that includes an 18,000-square-foot central lawn, 1.2 miles of accessible pathways, a children’s play area, an amphitheater, scenic overlooks, and more.
Additionally, they plan to build a museum dedicated to freedom and democracy. They released a video that included artist renderings showing a lush plaza and park area, complete with 350 trees and numerous other plants meant to promote biodiversity, stormwater absorption, and year-round interest among residents and tourists. The area allows for picnicking and public gatherings with sitting areas, fire pits, a coffee shop, and brilliant views of the waterfront.
“As fourth-generation residents and neighbors of this community, Soloviev understands the immense value that green spaces bring to urban life,” Soloviev Group CEO Michael Hershman said. “Freedom Plaza is a commitment to creating an inspiring place where memories are made in this wonderful part of the city, with an accessible, and sustainable park for everyone to enjoy.”
Architects Reveal Vision For Property
Freedom Plaza is designed by OJB Landscape Architects and comes as bidders look for unique projects that would impress the New York State Gaming Commission.
Empire State regulators are expected to award three downstate licenses by the end of the year. Two of those are expected to go to existing “racinos” located in the New York City area and one will go to a new property in the city.
In recent years, the legislature made a few unsuccessful attempts at legalizing online casinos. Sen. Joseph Addabbo, a prominent pro-gaming lawmaker, said he believes iGaming legislation could pass once regulators award the land-based licenses.
Beyond the outdoor areas, the plan calls for two residential towers with 1,325 apartments, two hotel towers, and a partially subterranean casino.
Soloviev is partnering with Mohegan Gaming on the casino aspects of the project. The tribal group owns and operates the Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut and also a Mohegan property in Pennsylvania. The company also runs gaming operations for other companies in Washington, Canada, and South Korea, and at one time ran operations at Resorts World Casino in Atlantic City and Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.
The final plan came after consulting with other groups in the city, according to Soloviev.
“We appreciate the feedback that we have received from our neighbors, community organizations, and civic leaders and look forward to our continued collaboration and delivering an experience that will enrich the lives of our neighbors and the city as a whole,” Hershman said.
Other casino plans have also been released in recent weeks including a possible resort near Citi Field. also announced plans allowing residents to invest in their potential Bronx casino.
