Freedom Plaza Commits to 100% Affordable Housing

The proposed Freedom Plaza development has announced a major change to its application: all 1,080 residential units will be designated as permanently affordable housing. According to their press release, Soloviev Group and Mohegan, this decision is intended as a response to New York City’s ongoing housing challenges and will be secured through a legally binding restrictive declaration.

If built, the project would represent the largest number of newly constructed affordable homes in Manhattan’s central core in more than a decade. In addition to housing, the 6.3-acre site plan includes nearly five acres of public open space, retail, dining options, cultural institutions, daycare, and a museum dedicated to democracy. The project also outlines partnerships with nonprofits such as the Settlement Housing Fund.

In recent weeks, hundreds of residents attended CAC meetings to share their views via public meetings, and thousands have responded via written testimony and online petitions. Supporters highlight the project’s potential to provide housing opportunities, union jobs and local economic impact. Opponents, however, have expressed concerns about traffic, density, and development tied to the casino component of the proposal.

Next Steps

The final Community Advisory Committee (CAC) vote on Freedom Plaza is scheduled for Monday, September 22, at 10:00 a.m. Members of the public may listen to the proceedings via YouTube Live at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/live/_0tU-d8_pYE?si=WZotWTqUlw3ycv3w.

The outcome of this vote will determine whether the project advances in New York State’s process for the casino and mixed-use development proposals.