Benefits Overview
Unlock the The Inspiring Potential of Freedom Plaza
Welcome to Freedom Plaza, a transformative project that redefines community living in Manhattan’s East Side and beyond. This visionary development brings unparalleled benefits to the neighborhood, creating a vibrant hub for housing, jobs, open space, culture, and community reinvestment.
More Affordable Housing
Freedom Plaza addresses New York City’s housing crisis by introducing over 1,000 new apartments, including 500+ permanently affordable units under the City’s Mandatory Inclusionary Housing program. These residences are designed to foster a walk-to-work community, complete with integrated retail, a daycare facility, and direct access to the expansive new Freedom Plaza Park.
A Project Powered by Unions and Local Small Businesses
Freedom Plaza will generate tens of thousands of family-sustaining union jobs, including 8,000 permanent positions and thousands of union construction roles. By committing to MWBE hiring and workforce development programs, the project ensures inclusive opportunities, injecting tens of millions of dollars annually into local and minority-owned businesses, empowering women, disadvantaged communities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Local economic development will be supported through initiatives like the Mohegan Momentum Partnership and Locals First purchasing program.
Open Space
At the heart of Freedom Plaza is a 4.77-acre publicly-accessible waterfront park, offering a dynamic green oasis roughly the size of Manhattan’s Bryant Park. The park will feature universally accessible spaces, a playground, a dog run, and an event lawn with a seasonal bandshell for concerts. With sustainable landscaping, native plantings, and cultural amenities like public art and an amphitheater, the park will be a hub for connection, recreation, and cultural expression.
A Vibrant Cultural and Hospitality Hub
Freedom Plaza introduces a new destination that combines luxury and community-oriented amenities. A 5-star hotel with Banyan Tree’s signature wellness resort and spa will anchor the development, complemented by fine and casual dining, music, and arts programming. The site will also feature a family-friendly museum and a community center, creating a vibrant space for locals and visitors alike.
Commitment to Community Reinvestment
Freedom Plaza is committed to reinvesting at least $5 million annually through a Community Reinvestment Fund to support civic and social-service initiatives. These funds will be available to enhance efforts like neighborhood beautification, public school services, arts and cultural programs, sustainability efforts, and affordable housing initiatives. A Community Advisory Board will oversee the allocation of these resources, ensuring they equitably meet the needs of the community.
Join Us in Building the Future
Freedom Plaza is a vision for a brighter, more inclusive future. With transformative investments in housing, jobs, open space, and culture, this project will enhance East Midtown and our city as a whole for generations to come.
Explore the possibilities and help us unlock the full potential of Freedom Plaza. Learn more about each aspect by clicking on the sections above.