Mohegan Gaming partnered with the Soloviev Group in a bid to open a casino in Freedom Plaza, New York. The companies have now joined the race for New York casino licenses alongside many other applicants.
New York State Gaming Commission revealed it is issuing three downtown casino licenses in the greater New York City area.
The licenses are still up for grabs, but a first round of questions from interested bidders is due Feb. 3. The partnering companies have yet to establish a deadline for submitting applications.
Soloviev and Mohegan could deliver long-term attraction to New York City
Casino projects such as this are built to deliver long-term value to the city. They would also improve tourism and provide unique experiences for visitors. And both Soloviev Group and Mohegan have experience with it.
Real estate developer, Stefan Soloviev, owns the 9 West 57th St building in New York City as well as other properties.
Mohegan, established in 1995, is an extension of the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut. It owns and manages eight major entertainment resorts in the US, Canada, and Northern Asia. As Ray Pineault, CEO and President of Mohegan said via release:
“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.
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.”
Casino operator Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, is among the world’s largest resorts. It is also famous for delivering memorable guest experiences through its immersive entertainment offerings.
Freedom Plaza New York casino can have a positive impact on the community
Earlier in November, Soloviev shared his plans to join the New York casino license competition. Now that he has chosen his strategic partner, Soloviev commented: “As a leader in socially responsible development, we will honor, complement and advance Mohegan’s principles through sustainable and carbon-neutral property development.
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 location will be home to the world’s first museum celebrating freedom and democracy. Freedom Plaza will also feature the following:
- Substantial green area
- A state-of-the-art performance venue
- Iconic Ferris Wheel
- A 1,000+ room first-class hotel
- Two residential towers, satisfying the city’s critical shortage of housing
Connected to the Franklin D. Roosevelt East River Drive and many bus stops, Freedom Plaza is a short walk from Grand Central Station. The location is also close to the 34th Street ferry, so the development team will explore providing additional dedicated ferry service.
Furthermore, Freedom Plaza plans to generate thousands of well-paying jobs throughout the construction process. It would also inject the local economy with millions of dollars in new tax revenue upon opening.
As stated in the press release, Soloviev Group and Mohegan are confident they are providing a compelling bid and competitive proposal.
