
With a total of three New York downstate licenses, a total of 11 entertainment and gaming companies have demonstrated interest in winning one. As competition is fierce, every potential bidder brings lots to the table, with most proposing investments in billions of dollars.
Only recently, one of the license contenders, Mohegan, along with its partner for the proposed project, The Soloviev Group, uncovered new renderings and video, highlighting the scale and vibrant green space their project would be offering.
Freedom Plaza’s Green Space to Transform Manhattan
Called Freedom Plaza, the duo’s project seeks to bring a range of amenities for residents and visitors of Manhattan. The highly anticipated project plans to use some 6.3 acres of land from 38th to 41st street east of Fifth Avenue on Manhattan’s East Side. OJB Landscape Architecture, an award-winning and recognizable development company, was tasked with the design of the 4.7 acres of public green space which will have public access.
The centerpiece of Freedom Plaza’s outdoor area would be an 18,000-square-foot central lawn, providing flexible green space that is perfect for community gatherings and picnics. This large-scale open area will offer stunning skyline and East River views while bringing unique outdoor community activation.
Scenic overlooks and distinct “garden rooms” will cater to visitors of the Freedom Plaza. Overall, the outdoor areas offer 1.2 miles of accessible pathways and major attractions include a 700-foot East River Promenade and a 7,000 square-foot children’s play area. A water garden with nearby shaded seating areas, as well as food and beverage kiosks are going to provide refreshments for visitors to the outdoor area.
Not unexpectedly, Freedom Plaza will offer a casino, as well as a hotel with more than 1,200 luxury rooms and amenities such as spa, roof deck and conference spaces. Freedom Plaza is also expected to be the home of a Museum of Freedom and Democracy, a community center, as well as a range of affordable housing options thanks to its two residential towers.
Mohegan Is Excited to Bring Its World-Class Hospitality to Manhattan
Ray Pineault, Mohegan’s CEO, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to “creating destinations that go beyond entertainment to enrich the lives of our guests and the communities we serve.” Moreover, the executive pointed out: “With Freedom Plaza, we look forward to bringing our legacy of world-class hospitality, cultural authenticity and innovative experiences to Manhattan, offering a destination that redefines what it means to gather, explore, and celebrate.”
Jim Burnett, OJB Landscape Architecture’s president, spoke about the unique design of Freedom Plaza which encapsulates the “natural beauty and cultural energy of New York City.” He said that the massive project successfully fuses urban life, art and nature.
Burnett added: “From the East River Overlook to the intimate gardens, every detail has been carefully crafted to inspire and engage visitors.” Last but not least, the executive said that OJB Landscape Architecture is honored to provide its expertise to bring this exceptional project to life.