The race for casino licenses in New York has taken a twist, with three up for grabs at present.
A poll undertaken by Tulchin Research has revealed almost two-thirds of Manhattan residents are in favor of Freedom Plaza, the bold mixed-use destination designed by the Soloviev Group and its operator partner, Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment.
The extensive civic and cultural space proposed for Midtown’s East Side has seemingly gained the approval of 57% of voters in the area, with a desire expressed for affordable housing (91%) and accessible green space (83%).
In addition to the high-end 295,000 sq ft. casino, Freedom Plaza has pledged “unparalleled benefits to the neighborhood”, including 513 affordable units within its 1,047-apartment residential block, and a 4.7-acre open green expanse.
The project will also include 1,251 hotel rooms, a large meeting and conference center, and a dedicated wellness and leisure facility, with parking provisions for 1,456 vehicles (20% EV).
Freedom Plaza estimates it will create 8,000 union-backed permanent jobs, contributing almost $ 1 billion in tax revenue.
Companies seeking to bid for one of three available casino licenses in New York must submit bids by June 27, making for a fast-approaching deadline for anyone to take over the Nassau project. https://t.co/Ary3YDnv50
— Newsday (@Newsday) May 29, 2025
Each license will cost $ 500 million
Competition for the three downstate casino licenses in New York is intense, with at least seven applicants still in contention. The process commenced three years ago with final submissions due on June 27, ahead of decision time at the end of this year.
The Freedom Plaza project is one of several hopefuls to receive one of three downstate New York casino licenses. The process, which started in 2022, is nearing a crucial point with applications due on June 27. Expectations are for a decision in December.
Two strong contenders for the casino licenses in New York, which will cost $ 500 million each, are thought to be Resorts International’s Empire City Casino in Yonkers and Genting’s Resorts World in Queens.
Other projects in the race include Caesars Palace Times Square, in partnership with SL Green Realty Corp. and New York Mets owner Steve Cohen’s Metropolitan Park venture, which would deliver a casino next to Citi Field.
Image credit: Soloviev Group
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