East Side Casino, Park Development Plans Are Starting To Take Shape

MIDTOWN, NY — Plans for a major new waterfront park and building complex on Manhattan's east side are starting to take shape, and this week, developers revealed the latest renderings, in video, for the project.

From 38th Street to 41st Street east of First Avenue, the Freedom Plaza will include expansive public park space as well as many mixed-use buildings, including a casino, if the city approves it.

The slate of buildings will also include two apartment towers, a museum that explores democracy, a community center, two hotels, and a daycare center, along with various shopping and dining spaces, developers said.

"Freedom Plaza is a commitment to creating an inspiring place where memories are made in this wonderful part of the city, with an accessible, and sustainable park for everyone to enjoy," Michael Hershman, CEO of Soloviev Group, said. Soloviev is developing the project.

The project, which BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group designed, has changed shape slightly, developers said. The residential buildings have been somewhat reoriented in order to be in compliance with the City's previous approvals, developers said.

"We appreciate the feedback that we have received from our neighbors, community organizations, and civic leaders and look forward to our continued collaboration and delivering an experience that will enrich the lives of our neighbors and the city as a whole," Hershman said.

The park will include more than a mile of walking paths with scenic views of the water and skyline, developers said.

The park will also have more than 7,000 square feet of space for children's play equipment and a 6,000-square-foot water garden.

"During more than a year and a half of engagement with Soloviev about the need for long-term publicly accessible open space, I deeply appreciate that sustainability and green space have been prioritized," Kevin O'Keefe, the president of Manhattan East Community Association, said. "This urban park reflects a forward-thinking approach that can provide the public with safe and inviting experiences from family-friendly lawn activities to connections with nature."

Here is the video with the latest renderings.

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