Support for Freedom Plaza in Manhattan Remains High in Recent Survey
New York's racing game just received a fresh twist!
A recent survey by Tulchin Research points to an overwhelming public approval for the Freedom Plaza proposal in Midtown's East Side. With an astounding 65% of Manhattan voters backing this ambitious project, it's evident that the city's residents are hungry for transformative urban solutions, prioritizing affordable housing and expanded public green spaces.
What Makes Freedom Plaza Stand Out
Designed by the Soloviev Group and Mohegan, Freedom Plaza aims high by creating space for an inclusive community, job opportunities, and accommodations that won't break the bank. This project, favorably viewed across various demographics, brings several notable features to the table:
- Green Oasis: Almost 85% of those polled dig the idea of a 4.7-acre park along the East River. This green area comes complete with a playground, community gathering spots, promising a welcomed breath of fresh air in our urban jungle.
- Local Economy Boost: An impressive 82% welcome the project's emphasis on hiring local workers and vendors. The project aims to train and create jobs in various sectors such as construction, hospitality, and engineering, beefing up the local economy.
- Essential Services and Retail: Over 82% of voters support the inclusion of essential services like a grocery store, daycare center, gathering spaces, and locally-focused dining and retail options, all designed to enhance residents' daily lives.
- Accessible Housing: With 78% endorsement, the plan to construct over 500 affordable homes in the total housing units is a step in the right direction in fulfilling the need for affordable housing for working families.
Ben Tulchin, President of Tulchin Research, comments on the poll results, stating that the robust support from Manhattan voters underlines the understanding of the importance of bold urban development initiatives.
Competition for Casino Licenses
Meanwhile, other contenders are eyeing downstate casino licenses:
- Metropolitan Park: The owner of the New York Mets, Steve Cohen, believes Queens is the perfect hotspot for a new development named 'Metropolitan Park.' This plan includes a casino in close proximity to Citi Field.
- Caesars Palace Times Square: In collaboration with SL Green Realty Corp, Caesars proposes a casino smack dab in Times Square, riding the area's thriving energy to attract both tourists and locals.
- Resorts World New York City: Already operating a racetrack and casino in Queens, Resorts World seeks a full casino license to strengthen its position in New York's gaming industry.
As more projects join the fray, Freedom Plaza holds its ground as a strong contender, offering solutions that address the pressing needs of Manhattan residents.
A Race Against Time
With a deadline for applications fast approaching this month and a final decision expected in December, the race is heating up. Freedom Plaza's substantial public backing and its holistic benefits position it as a formidable competitor to address New York City's housing needs, stimulate the economy, and unite the community.
[1] https://www.crainsnewyork.com/real-estate/manhattan-development-freedom-plaza-wins-over-public-poll[2] https://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/manhattan-loves-casino-a-third-of-polled-voters-support-midtown-east-project-article-1.3777152[3] https://www.ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/news/2023/05/11/poll-show-64-of-manhattan-voters-support-freedom-plaza-development[4] https://www.6sqft.com/manhattan-chamber-of-commerce-urges-the-state-to-grant-a-casino-license-in-manhattan/[5] https://therealdeal.com/2022/03/21/freedom-plaza-polls-3-times-as-many-people-back-it-over- otro/[6] https://therealdeal.com/2023/05/10/freedom-plaza-is-gaining-ground-in-midtown-east-poll-says/[7] https://therealdeal.com/2023/05/17/freedom-plaza-attracts-wide-unanimous-support-in-new-survey-poll/[8] https://townhallfinance.com/politics-election/2025/06/21/freedom-plaza-project-proposes-affordable-housing-green-space-and-casino[9] https://therealdeal.com/2023/06/09/will-new-york-grant-more-casino-licenses/[10] https://therealdeal.com/2022/04/01/what-we-know-about-freedom-plaza-so-far/
- The robust approval of Freedom Plaza, a project focusing on education-and-self-development through affordable housing and job opportunities, might lead to a shift in New York's general news landscape, with more stories about urban revitalization and transformation.
- As sports enthusiasts eagerly await updates on the competition for casino licenses, they may also find themselves monitoring weather reports more closely, as the expected location of these casinos could potentially impact local weather patterns due to their size and installation of facilities such as indoor gaming areas.
