The Soloviev Foundation will soon debut “Field of Light,” a six-acre immersive installation along the waterfront edge of Murray Hill, Manhattan. Designed by acclaimed artist Bruce Munro, the installation will take shape at Freedom Plaza, an undeveloped parcel of land along the East River from 38th to 41st Streets.
The installation is scheduled to open this fall and remain in place for 12 months. Field of Light will feature 17,000 low-light, fiber-optic stemmed spheres that slowly change color throughout the day. Access to the plaza will be free of charge for all visitors.
“Field of Light at Freedom Plaza stands for boundless imagination and the freedom to dream,” said Munro. “It is my hope that it warms hearts and inspires both young and old to take from it and create something of their own to pass on to others.”
Evening rendering of Field of Light – Courtesy of The Soloviev Foundation
The area referred to as Freedom Park comprises little development or standing structures. Soloviev Group is holding off on any major improvements to the area in hopes the city will green light the development of a new casino. Proposed in collaboration with global casino brand Mohegan, plans include the construction of a 1,000-key hotel, two 25-story residential towers, a waterfront Ferris Wheel, and a below-grade casino and entertainment venue.
If the bid is not accepted by the New York State Gaming Commission, Soloviev Group is expected to move forward with its original plan to build a 1.2-million-square-foot office building.
Preliminary rendering of Freedom Plaza – Courtesy of The Soloviev Group
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In the pit?
This parcel is the perfect example of developer non-development. Soloviev will sit on this thing until he finds a Fortune 500 Company looking for a new headquarters or until the UN expands (e.g. never).
Great. A casino and Ferris wheel right in front of the UN.
With Russia and China being permanent (veto proof) members of the UN, a Ferris Wheel (i.e. a carnival/clown show) makes perfect since. I love it.
Doesn’t the UN have enough clout in NYC to put the kabosh on a carnival district right on their doorstep?