Diplomat Suzan Johnson Cook voices her backing for Freedom Plaza in a fresh Op-Ed piece entitled "Elevating Equity, Opportunity, Perspective, and Values."
Freedom Plaza: A Pioneering Urban Development Project
New York City is set to witness a transformative change with the development of Freedom Plaza, a $11.1 billion mixed-use project spanning 6.3 acres on Manhattan's East Side. This ambitious project, a collaboration between Soloviev Group and Mohegan, promises to redefine urban economic development.
A Hub of Community Benefits
Freedom Plaza is more than just a large-scale integrated resort complex. It is a civic and cultural vision that will offer a daycare center, a food market, a museum dedicated to democracy, and a community center. The first-ever Museum of Freedom and Democracy will be a significant addition, fostering education and awareness about the principles of democracy.
Boosting the Local Economy
The project is projected to create 17,000 construction jobs and 8,000 permanent jobs, ultimately supporting nearly 40,000 jobs economy-wide. With an annual economic output nearing $3.2 billion, Freedom Plaza is poised to make a substantial impact on the local economy.
Community Investment and Equity Sharing
In a unique move, the developers plan a Community Investment Fund that will return hundreds of millions of dollars back into the local community for projects such as school improvement, sports facilities, and beautification. Additionally, New York City residents will be offered stock equity in the gaming facility, allowing them to share in the project's long-term financial success.
A Strategic Location and Scale
The site, a former brownfield, will be transformed into a global destination. The project includes a signature 5-acre park with planned light infrastructure connections, enhancing waterfront access. The strategic location and scale of Freedom Plaza make it a promising addition to Midtown East Manhattan.
Workforce Development and Diversity
Mohegan Gaming, the project's operator, is committed to creating careers, not just jobs. Their experienced training system aims to diversify and empower the local workforce and economy. Freedom Plaza partners with various organizations to ensure a diverse workforce that reflects the city it serves.
Support from the Community
Freedom Plaza has gained support from a growing coalition of faith and civic leaders, labor unions, small business owners, and local residents. Built entirely with union labor, the project is a testament to the commitment to providing high-quality jobs.
With its focus on community benefits, economic impact, workforce development, and direct local economic participation, Freedom Plaza stands as a pioneering urban economic development initiative. Rev. Dr. Ambassador Suzan Johnson Cook, a minister, former U.S. Ambassador for International Religious Freedom, and a former NYPD chaplain, has lent her support to this project, embodying faith in action and a commitment to equity, inclusion, and community.
Freedom Plaza will offer a range of lifestyle alternatives, including fashion-and-beauty stores, food-and-drink outlets, and shopping centers, catering to diverse tastes and needs.
For those interested in culture and history, the Museum of Freedom and Democracy and the community center will provide educational and social activities.
Pets and their owners can enjoy the 5-acre park, which will be a serene oasis in the heart of Manhattan.
Travelers can explore the area by car, as Freedom Plaza will have easily accessible parking facilities, making it a convenient stop for tourists and locals alike.
