Nearly two-thirds of Manhattan voters supportFreedom Plaza, the visionary civic and cultural plan for Midtown’s East Side, according to a new poll conducted by Tulchin Research. The results show strong support throughout the borough, with especially high backing in Midtown East, where 57 percent of voters support the project planned for the neighborhood. This local and borough-wide enthusiasm reflects a broader consensus around the urgent citywide need for more affordable housing and expanded public open space. Tulchin Research’s summary of the findings can be found here.
Designed by Soloviev Group and Mohegan to meet these critical needs, Freedom Plaza has earned broad backing across gender, age, race, and political affiliations, with particularly strong approval for key project components, including:
- 85% in favor of the proposed 4.7-acre park and public green space along the East River, featuring a playground and open spaces for community gatherings.
- 82% supporting the project’s focus on hiring local workers and vendors, offering job training and long-term opportunities in construction, hospitality, engineering, and more.
- 82% backing the addition of essential services, such as a grocery store, daycare center, gathering spaces, and locally focused dining and retail options.
- 78% in support of the construction of over 500 affordable homes for working people as part of the 1,000+ residential units.
“The results clearly demonstrate that Manhattan voters understand the urgent need for bold solutions to the city’s housing and infrastructure challenges, and they see Freedom Plaza as a forward-looking project that addresses these priorities,” said Ben Tulchin, President of Tulchin Research. “This level of support across communities is a powerful signal that New Yorkers are ready to embrace a comprehensive vision for inclusive and equitable development.”
“This poll reaffirms what we’ve heard directly from the community—New Yorkers need good- paying jobs, open green spaces, and housing options that working families can afford,” said Michael Hershman, CEO of the Soloviev Group. “As four-generation residents of this area, the Soloviev family is deeply committed to delivering what our neighbors value most and creating a project that will serve the city for generations to come.”
On the broader impact of gaming as an economic development strategy, Jessica Walker, President of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, commented, “Awarding a license within Manhattan is a once-in-a-generation opportunity with the potential to create thousands of good-paying jobs and generate billions in both upfront and sustained revenue. It could fundamentally reshape the city’s economic landscape and serve as a powerful catalyst for growth, investment, and revitalization.”
This announcement comes as Freedom Plaza continues to garner widespread support from labor, housing, and community leaders. Backed by 26 leading labor organizations and workforce development partners, including the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York, SEIU 32BJ, and the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council, the project is expected to generate 17,000 high-quality full- and part-time union construction jobs and permanent positions, in addition to producing billions in economic impact that will promote financial vitality across the region.
Conducted from May 6 to 13, 2025, the survey polled 600 registered Manhattan voters with an additional sample of 200 voters in Midtown East. It was offered in both English and Spanish to ensure accessibility across the community.
