The New York City gaming wars continue with Soloviev Group announcing that Mohegan has joined its bid as the casino partner for Freedom Plaza.
The bid comes as a result of the New York State Gaming Commission’s Request for Applications to develop and operate up to three downstate casinos. Established in 1995, Mohegan is an extension of the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and is the owner, developer and manager of eight integrated entertainment resorts in the United States, Canada and Northern Asia.
“Mohegan is known for the wide array of extraordinary experiences and exceptional service we provide our guests – but it is truly our culture, values and commitment to our community that set us apart as an organization,” said Ray Pineault, CEO and president of Mohegan. “Our rich Mohegan heritage provides the foundation for how we operate our business and guides our commitment to our employees, our approach to guest services and our relationship with partners and the communities in which we operate and serve. We look forward to infusing our ‘Spirit of Aquai,’ our guiding philosophy, into New York State.”
Mohegan’s flagship property, Mohegan Sun, located in Uncasville, Connecticut, is ranked one of the world’s largest casinos. Over more than 25 years, Mohegan Sun has expanded to Atlantic City, New Jersey; Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylania and Ridgefield, Washington. Mohegan made history in 2021 as the first tribe to operate a casino Las Vegas strip market. Internationally, Mohegan is the service provider for Fallsview Casino Resort and Casino Niagara, both located in Canada’s Niagara Falls tourism district. Later this year, Mohegan will open Inspire, a resort destination in South Korea – which marks not only Mohegan’s first foray into the Asian gaming market but is also set to become the largest integrated resort in Northern Asia.
“As a leader in socially responsible development, we will honor, complement and advance Mohegan’s principles through sustainable and carbon-neutral property development,” said Stefan Soloviev, chairman, Soloviev Group. “This strategic partnership will not only ensure that Freedom Plaza will be ethically developed, but provide long-term economic prosperity for the local community, a positive impression on regional and international tourism, and a lasting impact on New York City for generations to come.”
The proposed Freedom Plaza will introduce the world’s first museum dedicated to the celebration of freedom and democracy. Freedom Plaza will also serve the community at large with the availability of a substantial green area, a state-of-the-art performance venue, iconic Ferris Wheel, a 1,000-plus room first-class hotel, and two residential towers which will work towards satisfying the city’s critical shortage of housing.
The immediate surrounding area is largely undeveloped in terms of real estate, providing an opportunity for access without undue disruption. Connected to the Franklin D. Roosevelt East River Drive and numerous bus stops, Freedom Plaza is a short walk from the 34th Street ferry and Grand Central Station. The development team will also explore providing additional dedicated ferry service.
Other bids to develop gaming facilities in Manhattan have come from a partnership of SL Green and Caesars Entertainment, Saks Fifth Avenue owner Hudson’s Bay Co. and more.
