Freedom Plaza, the $11.1-billion East Side Manhattan civic and cultural plan created by Soloviev Group and Mohegan, was front and center at its first Community Advisory Committee (CAC) public hearing. Developers pitched their traffic and housing master plan, hoping to resolve any community concerns while highlighting the wider benefits of the project.
Key Takeaways
- Freedom Plaza has secured significant community support, with over 12,000 residents and 250 small businesses backing the proposal.
- The project will create more than 1,000 homes, nearly half designated as affordable, alongside five acres of public green space.
- Developers estimate 17,000 union jobs during construction and operation, with a projected $3.2 billion in annual economic impact.
Supporters of the project, including local businesses, unions, religious leaders, and community members, appeared in droves, and over 2,000 citizens gave public comments in favor. They followed the lead of 250 small businesses and 10,000 Manhattan residents that signed a petition favoring the construction.
The development promises 1,049 new homes, with nearly half reserved as affordable units for working families. It also includes five acres of open green space, retail and dining venues, a daycare center, a food market, a museum of democracy, and a community hub.
Two luxury hotels will anchor the complex, featuring adult gaming facilities. Developers also project 17,000 union jobs from construction and operations and nearly 40,000 jobs across the economy, estimating a $3.2-billion annual economic impact.
Heated debate over Coney Island casino
While Freedom Plaza gathers steam, a very different scene was observed outside a recent community hearing for a proposed $3.4-billion casino in Coney Island. The proposed project, known as "The Coney," caused tension at a local YMCA, as locals chanted and held signs for and against the project.
Some longtime locals protested vehemently, fearing the casino would alter the neighborhood's character. Others said the project risked prioritizing private profit over community needs. NYC Housing Authority residents shared concerns about lasting impacts on housing and quality of life.
Developers struggled to present their 20-minute proposal amid frequent interruptions. They argued the casino would serve as a powerful economic driver, offering jobs, training programs, and long-term opportunities.
The CAC, composed of city and state officials, will hold a second hearing before voting on Sept. 30.
Casino licensing timeline faces delays
As local debates intensify, state leaders are weighing the broader timeline for awarding New York's three downstate casino licenses.
Sen. Joseph Addabbo Jr., who chairs the Senate Committee on Racing, Gaming and Wagering, recently praised the process, saying it is vital for New York’s economic development. He also stressed that the process must be handled fairly.
“The downstate casino gaming expansion brings substantial economic development opportunities with job creation, better entertainment choices for our communities, and improved programs to address problem gambling. The selection of licensees must be conducted with absolute integrity,” said Sen. Addabbo.
The New York State Gaming Facility Board expects to announce winners by Dec. 1, and successful bidders are expected to pay $500 million in licensing fees by the end of the year.
