NEW YORK, May 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Soloviev Group, in partnership with Mohegan, today announced an exciting forward-looking initiative that will offer eligible local residents a unique opportunity to become stakeholders in the proposed gaming facility at Freedom Plaza, a transformative civic and cultural destination that includes two world-class hotels, destination spa, a diverse mix of food and beverage venues, and meeting and entertainment facilities. As part of the competitive bidding process set to begin in June 2025 for one of up to three Downstate gaming licenses, this dynamic, mixed-use hub in Midtown Manhattan, aims to deliver a thriving center for affordable housing, job creation, open space, and community reinvestment along First Avenue between East 38th and East 41st streets.
Sharing both its financial returns and positive future impact, up to 12% of any initial public equity raised for the proposed gaming facility will be designated for residents of New York City. Soloviev and Mohegan also intend to provide investment allocations to eligible New York state and city employee-related pension funds on a preferential basis relative to other institutional investors, ensuring broad community participation and benefit. If Soloviev and Mohegan are awarded a gaming license, the capital raise would begin no earlier than 2027.
"Soloviev, in partnership with Mohegan, is committed to fostering prosperous long-term relationships with residents, community organizations, and businesses both locally and throughout New York," said Michael Hershman, Chief Executive Officer of the Soloviev Group. "Our visionary Freedom Plaza project exemplifies these goals, and we would be thrilled to offer a financial interest to these stakeholders."
Empowering the local community through direct financial participation is a vital aspect of the Soloviev and Mohegan vision. If awarded a gaming license, Soloviev and Mohegan plan to develop a culturally robust experience with a substantial affordable housing complex, an inviting nearly five-acre waterfront park, world-class hospitality and dining, and integrated entertainment. The Freedom Plaza project will add thousands of union jobs, support local businesses, provide attractive residential opportunities, strengthen the community, and boost tourism. It will also play a key role in advancing the New York City workforce, driving meaningful economic development along the East River, and helping to transform the area for the betterment of all New Yorkers.
This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.
About Soloviev Group
Unwavering in its commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility, the Soloviev Group brings four generations of successful development across community-focused verticals, including hospitality, residential and commercial development, agriculture, energy, logistics and philanthropy. The firm's most recent project, Freedom Plaza, will encompass more than six acres on Manhattan's East Side from 38th to 41st Street east of First Avenue and is committed to helping New York City thrive. The mixed-use development will feature 4.7 acres of publicly accessible green space; two world-class hotels by global resort leaders Mohegan and Banyan Tree Group, featuring the option of modern gaming for those 21-and-over; locally oriented retail and an array of shopping and dining options; a museum dedicated to democracy and community center; and two residential towers with housing that working people can afford. For more information, visit freedomplaza.nyc.
About Mohegan
Mohegan is the owner, developer, and manager of premier entertainment resorts in the United States and Canada. Mohegan's U.S. operations include resorts in Connecticut and Pennsylvania and Canadian operations are based in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The brand's iGaming division, Mohegan Digital, provides cutting-edge online gaming solutions to Mohegan's loyal fan base and meets the digital needs of North American customers. Mohegan is owner and operator of Connecticut Sun, a professional basketball team in the WNBA. For more information on Mohegan and its properties, please visit www.mohegangaming.com.
SOURCE The Soloviev Group
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