Question 1 The regulatory hurdles for any venture can be significant. How great a challenge did this present to New York Wheel and did they adequately anticipate the hurdles to be faced?
Question 2 The design changes that came about due to the Ground Bearing Pressure issues and the MTA regulatory issues regarding the RROW decking had both cost and financing implications….please explain.
Question 3 Financing an unusual project such as New York Wheel requires flexibility and adaptability. Assess the capitalization plan (including the currently in-process financing) for New York Wheel and explain its pros and cons. Was the sponsor financing realistic? Was the Revenue Interest Financing worth pursuing, why or why not? Why is this project attractive to alternative financing markets (Hedge Fund, Private Equity) and not traditional financing markets?
Question 4 Describe the structural contractual issues (CMA and DBA) addressing the construction of New York Wheel and explain how they impacted the financing. Was the CMA a reasonable construct and were the risks properly addressed? What would you do differently with the DBA to reduce the current construction/financing risks?
Question 5.1
The Operating and Visitor Experience Plans of New York Wheel are quite critical to the overall success of the project. Highlight the 5 most important elements and rank their importance and anything you would change.
Question 5.2
There are many ethical issues that arise in the course of a major project like New York Wheel. List the most significant ones encountered in the realms of partnership, regulatory approval, financing, diligence and negotiation/documentation.

