In brief
A community panel has rejected the proposed Mohegan Sun resort in Manhattan, which included a casino, despite last-minute offers for affordable housing and community amenities. This decision leaves only five proposals remaining for competitive gambling licenses in New York City as the state approaches its final decision in December. Mayor Eric Adams expressed surprise at the rejection, emphasizing the potential benefits of casino developments.
NEW YORK (AP) — A proposed Mohegan Sun casino resort near the United Nations has been rejected by a community advisory committee, effectively ending efforts to bring a casino to Manhattan. The decision was made on a 4-2 vote, with minimal discussion among the panel members, who were appointed by state and city officials.
The development, known as Freedom Plaza, would have included hotels, retail spaces, dining options, entertainment facilities, and over 1,000 residential units. In a final push for local support, developers had pledged to allocate all residential units as permanently affordable, along with other planned community investments like a museum and public spaces.
Michael Hershman, CEO of the Soloviev Group, expressed disappointment, stating that the project aimed to revitalize Midtown East and cater to the community's needs while attracting visitors to New York City.
This proposal was the last under consideration for Manhattan after other high-profile projects, including a Jay-Z backed Caesars casino in Times Square, were similarly rejected by local boards last week. Now, five proposals remain for the three available state gambling licenses for the New York City area, including plans for a casino in the Bronx and another in Coney Island.
Approval from local boards is essential for these proposals to advance, with state regulators expected to finalize decisions in December. Mayor Adams noted the potential economic benefits of casinos, highlighting the need for job creation and tourism stability, expressing his surprise at the outcome of recent votes.
