#Lightfoot

Chicago Tribune

Bally's gets Gaming Board approval to open temporary casino

After years of planning, months of renovations and several days of monitored practice sessions, Bally's Chicago got the green light Friday from the Illinois Gaming Board to launch the city's long-sought first casino. Medinah Temple in River North opened this weekend, welcoming gamblers to try their luck at an ornate temporary facility that is…

Land-based ・ 08 February 2024

Chicago Tribune

January gambling revenues up at Bally's but down statewide

The new year is off to a promising start for Bally's Chicago, which saw gambling revenue hit a new monthly high in January, bucking a broader post-holiday downturn for Illinois casinos. In January, revenue at the temporary Medinah Temple casino grew 9.1% to $9.3 million in adjusted gross receipts, according to monthly data released Wednesday by the…

Finance ・ 08 February 2024

US Bets

Bally's Chicago Casino Posts $7.6M In November Revenue

The Illinois Gaming Board reported Thursday that Bally's temporary casino in downtown Chicago generated $7.6 million in adjusted gross revenue in November, a figure that was practically flat compared to its first full month of wagering in October. Bally's separately pointed out its gross gaming revenue for November was $8.9 million, noting what it…

Finance ・ 17 January 2024

Chicago Sun Times

Bally’s ‘temporary’ casino will be around awhile, City Council critic says

The stumbling start for Chicago's temporary casino prompted an influential City Council member to warn Thursday that the city may be stuck with the gambling den at Medinah Temple indefinitely. Ald. Brian Hopkins (2nd), chairman of the City Council's Public Safety Committee, said Bally's was undercapitalized to begin with, and he fears the company…

Finance ・ 17 November 2023

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Chicago Sun Times

Bally’s Chicago casino sees average daily revenue drop over first full month of operation

With the betting window closed on the first full month of operation at Bally's temporary casino, the Medinah Temple site raked in more than $7.6 million in October, a 12% decline in average daily revenue compared to its first few weeks. The latest monthly cash count announced Wednesday by regulators at the Illinois Gaming Board put the River North…

Finance ・ 09 November 2023

The Real Deal

Wind Creek Chicago Southland Casino Plan Scores $290M Loan

The developer of a $529 million casino complex in Chicago's southern suburbs scored $290 million in financing as construction on the large project advances. Wind Creek Hospitality, the builder of the casino and a 252-room hotel were issued a loan for the 73000-square foot gambling center featuring 1350 slot machines and 56 table games on the border…

Law ・ 04 November 2023

West Island

Bally's Eyes September 2026 to Unveil $1.7B Permanent Casino in Chicago's River West

Bally's has secured the approval from state gambling regulators for a fully-fledged betting license in Chicago. The unanimous decision from the Illinois Gaming Board ushers in a new era for the gaming industry in the city, with Bally's establishing a presence at the soon-to-be-constructed megadevelopment in River West. Bally's temporary casino,…

Law ・ 02 November 2023

Yogonet

Bally’s temporary Chicago casino at Medinah Temple rakes in nearly $7 million in first three weeks

Bally's temporary casino at the Medinah Temple, Chicago has reported its figures for its soft launch period, from its Sept. 9 opening through Sept. 30, amassing close to $7 million in revenue during its initial three weeks of operation. The Illinois Gaming Board released the figures, providing insights into how the River North casino performed…

Finance ・ 11 October 2023

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Chicago Sun Times

Bally’s temporary Chicago casino opens at Medinah Temple

After decades of political wrangling by past Chicago mayors, years of jockeying by potential developers for the lucrative deal and months of preparation by the lucky bidder, Bally's temporary Chicago casino took the city's first legal wagers from the betting public Saturday morning. Not that any of that lengthy history was on display outside the…

Finance ・ 09 September 2023

US Bets

Bally's To Open Downtown Chicago Casino Saturday Morning

On Saturday morning, Chicago will become the largest city in the United States to have a casino within city limits. The Illinois Gaming Board issued a temporary operating permit to Bally's on Friday afternoon to conduct casino gaming at Medinah Temple, and the gaming company will open its doors to the public at the temporary venue at 8 a.m.…

Finance ・ 09 September 2023

WTTW

Place Your Bets: Bally’s Will Open Temporary Chicago Casino at Medinah Temple at 8 a.m. Saturday

More than three decades in the making, legalized gambling will make its Chicago debut at 8 a.m. Saturday morning when Bally's opens a temporary casino in River North's Medinah Temple. Chicagoans and tourists feeling lucky can play 800 slot games and 56 table games in the century-old Shriner's temple at 600 N. Wabash Ave., with its distinctive domed…

Law ・ 09 September 2023

The Real Deal

Albert Friedman Getting $20M from Temporary Bally’s Casino

Prominent River North developer Albert Friedman has won big with Bally's. The longtime Chicago real estate player with strong political connections struck a $20 million deal with the casino operator for the use of the historic Medinah Temple building as a temporary gambling hall while Bally's builds its permanent, $1.7 billion entertainment complex…

Law ・ 08 September 2023

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Chicago Sun Times

Bally’s Medinah Temple temporary casino landlord Albert Friedman will hit $20 million jackpot under 4-year lease

Chicago's first casino has yet to open to the public, but someone already has hit a jackpot topping $20 million. It's Albert M. Friedman, the clout-heavy developer whose tenants have included three mayors - Brandon Johnson, Lori Lightfoot and Rahm Emanuel. Friedman owns the historic but long-vacant Medinah Temple building about a mile north of City…

Finance ・ 08 September 2023

casinogamespro.com

Bally’s Could Finally Open Its Temporary Casino in Medinah Temple in a Few Days, Following Delays and Hurdles

Chicago could finally get its temporary casino in a few days. However, even in the eleventh hour before the venue's opening, the planned facility is still getting mixed reviews. Despite all the critics, the casino needs only the state's approval to start operation. There are still some issues that have to be taken care of before the planned casino…

Finance ・ 06 September 2023

chicagodefender.com

Bally’s Casino at Medinah Temple Could Open This Weekend

Chicago's first and only casino could open as soon as this Saturday, pending approval by the Illinois Gaming Board. Bally's is slated to open a temporary casino in one of the city's most iconic and historic buildings, the Medinah Temple. "We have to show our regulators that we are ready, as ready as we can be," said Ameet Patel, Bally's Corporation…

Industry ・ 06 September 2023

US Bets

IGB To Conduct Testing At Bally's Chicago Casino Next Week

It's almost time for Bally's to go all-in in Chicago. The Illinois Gaming Board will begin a three-day period of assessments and testing at Medinah Temple, the temporary Bally's casino in downtown Chicago, starting Sept. 5. The state agency will begin its assessment before conducting two days of practice gaming sessions Sept. 6-7. If Bally's meets…

Finance ・ 28 August 2023

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Chicago Sun Times

Chicago casino poised for mid-September opening

First the barbecue, then the baccarat. Chicago's first casino could launch soon after Labor Day, if all goes well during practice gaming sessions set to take place shortly after the holiday at Bally's temporary Medinah Temple gambling hall. Regulators will inspect the River North operation Sept. 5 and oversee practice gaming sessions Sept. 6-7,…

Finance ・ 24 August 2023

Chicago Sun Times

Bally’s Chicago casino ‘a little delayed,’ expected to open in September

Hold your bets on the opening date for Chicago's first casino. Bally's executives said Thursday they expect their temporary gambling house at the historic Medinah Temple to open sometime in September, a few weeks later than initially suggested by leaders of the Rhode Island-based corporation. Regulators at the Illinois Gaming Board gave an early…

Finance ・ 04 August 2023

US Bets

Illinois Finds Bally's Preliminarily Suitable For Chicago Casino

The Illinois Gaming Board unanimously voted Bally's "preliminarily suitable" at its Thursday meeting, a key step forward for the gaming company to build its $1.7 billion casino in the River West neighborhood of Chicago. The favorable vote was expected after the IGB had approved smaller related measures, including supplier contracts, as Bally's has…

Finance ・ 03 July 2023

Chicago Sun Times

Illinois Gaming Board gives early approval to Bally’s Chicago casino

All bets could be on in Chicago by the end of summer. State regulators on Thursday handed down a key early approval to Bally's Chicago casino plan, paving the way for the corporation to launch a temporary gambling house within a couple of months at the historic Medinah Temple in River North while it builds the permanent structure in River West. The…

Finance ・ 02 July 2023

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Our Quad Cities

Rock Island agrees to reimburse $4.7M in casino plan

Bally's Casino and Hotel, Rock Island, is planning a $34-million redevelopment, and the city is placing its bets to reimburse a good chunk of that. The former Jumer's Casino and Hotel (bought by Bally's in 2021), at Illinois 92 and I-280, is the oldest of the three Quad Cities casinos, having opened in 2008 and is lagging in market share, said…

Industry ・ 17 March 2023

Toronto Star

Billy Joel hits jackpot opening new stage at Fallsview Casino

Saturday, Feb. 25 at the OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino Never underestimate the power or resiliency of a song. There was a moment Saturday night during Billy Joel's christening of the new OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino when the singing-songwriting pianist from New York City donned his harmonica and pulled out his signature tune that was…

Winnings ・ 27 February 2023

Yogonet

Chicago: Bally's plans to build temporary casino at Medinah Temple approved by gaming board

State gambling regulators signed off on Thursday the initial steps toward the opening of Chicago's first casino, voting in favor of a license for Medinah Temple to serve as the home of a temporary gambling hall that developer Bally's hopes to open by June. The permanent building, to open its doors in 2026, will be built west of the Chicago River on…

Finance ・ 13 February 2023

NBC Chicago

Which Neighborhoods is Chicago Proposing to Build a Casino In? Here Are the 3 Possible Locations

The city of Chicago is getting closer to selecting a final location to build a proposed casino, a project that Mayor Lori Lightfoot says would bring in $175-$195 million in projected tax revenue. "The revenue is gonna shore up our police and fire pensions, critically important," Lightfoot said. "It's gonna relieve the burden on our…

Industry ・ 11 January 2023

The Bond Buyer

Chicago eyes gambling jackpot as it makes pick for casino license

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot chose Bally's Corporation from the three short-listed candidates to hold the city's first casino license, with the promise of a $40 million upfront payment and then a $200 million annual tax jackpot. The selection of the Bally's $1.7 billion casino and resort development proposal marks a milestone in the city's…

Finance ・ 20 December 2022

Urbanize Chicago

City shortlists three bids for new casino

Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot has announced that the city has shortlisted three bidders to progress to the next stage of the bidding process for the city's sole casino license. The shortlisted three, which include one from each gambling team, are Bally's Corporation at the Tribune Site, Hard Rock at the ONE Central Site, and Rivers 78 at the 78 site.…

Sports ・ 19 December 2022

WTTW

Chicago Officials Give Final Approval to Bally’s Casino Complex in River West

The Chicago City Council voted 39-5 to approve plans to transform the home of the Chicago Tribune's printing plant and newsroom into a $1.74 billion Bally's casino and resort on 30 acres in River West. The proposal still needs the support of the Illinois Gaming Board, which must license Bally's to operate the casino before work can begin along the…

Travel ・ 15 December 2022

Block Club Chicago

Final Details In Chicago Casino Plan Approved By Council

RIVER WEST - Alderpeople gave final zoning approval to the proposed Chicago casino district Wednesday, the latest step in the development's path forward as it seeks a gambling license from the state of Illinois. The planned casino is set to be built on the Tribune Publishing site along the Chicago River between Grand and Chicago avenues. The first…

Law ・ 14 December 2022

US Bets

Chicago City Council Approves Bally's $1.7 Billion Casino Plan

Bally's took another crucial step forward in its efforts to build a $1.7 billion casino in downtown Chicago on Wednesday when the full city council approved its proposal for the River West neighborhood. The 39-5 vote, with five absent and one recusal, came after the city's plan commission and zoning committee each approved the amended proposal on…

Finance ・ 14 December 2022

WTTW

Bally’s Casino Complex Proposal Set for Final Vote by Chicago City Council

Joining "Chicago Tonight" to discuss upcoming City Council votes are Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez (25th Ward), Ald. Pat Dowell (3rd Ward) and Ald. Walter Burnett Jr. (27th Ward). (Produced by Alexandra Silets) Efforts to transform the home of the Chicago Tribune's printing plant and newsroom into a $1.74 billion Bally's casino and resort is one step…

Travel ・ 14 December 2022

Chicago Tribune

Chicago casino set for final city OK following zoning vote

A first-ever casino in Chicago stands on the brink of city approval Wednesday as council members backed zoning for the project after the alderman of the ward where it would be built toned down his reservations over whether the project would result in enough jobs for minorities and nearby residents. Approval of the $1.74 billion Bally's casino…

Travel ・ 14 December 2022

Vegas Slots Online

Chicago Plan Commission Approves Bally’s Casino Plans

The Chicago Plan Commission has approved Bally's casino plans, marking the latest step forward for the proposed $1.7bn casino at Chicago Avenue and Halsted Street. A late objection on Monday by an alderperson was not enough to derail the approval. The final vote by the panel was 12-1; the City Council will conduct a final review as early as…

Land-based ・ 14 December 2022

Telegraph Herald

Chicago casino won’t be a ‘glitzy Las Vegas strip joint’ but a ‘series of experiences,’ developers say

CHICAGO - Plans to build a permanent casino and entertainment district in Chicago's River West continue to evolve based on feedback from residents, Bally's officials said at a community engagement meeting for the project Monday evening. As outlined Monday, the design now includes more greenspace and an additional road connections into the…

Land-based ・ 11 December 2022

Chicago Tribune

Chicago casino not a ‘glitzy Las Vegas strip joint': developer

Plans to build a permanent casino and entertainment district in Chicago's River West continue to evolve based on feedback from residents, Bally's officials said at a community engagement meeting for the project Monday evening. As outlined Monday, the design now includes more greenspace and an additional road connections into the riverfront district…

Land-based ・ 06 December 2022

The New York Times

If New York City Gets Las Vegas-Style Casinos, What Else Will It Get?

Before too long, New Yorkers and the millions of tourists who visit the city every year may have a new way to test their luck - and part with their money - amid the bright lights and skyscrapers of Midtown Manhattan: hands of blackjack or spins of the roulette wheel inside a new casino with all the trappings of Las Vegas, down to the incessant…

Law ・ 01 December 2022

The Real Deal

Bally’s To Close On $200M Casino Site Purchase

Bally's is on track to close its deal to buy the Freedom Center printing plant site for its Chicago casino by Thanksgiving, and will likely pursue a ground lease with an investor to raise money for the project. The entertainment company is set to buy the 30-acre River West property from Nexstar Media Group for $200 million, the Chicago…

Travel ・ 10 November 2022

NBC Chicago

Illinois Gaming Regulators Approve Danville Casino Plan

State regulators have approved a plan for construction of a new casino in Danville. The Illinois Gaming Board voted unanimously Thursday to OK plans for the Golden Nugget Danville Casino. The planned 41500-square-foot gaming floor is expected to have 500 slot machines, 14 table games, two restaurants and a sports book,…

Sports ・ 31 October 2022

US Bets

Illinois Casino And VGT Revenue Bounces Back In February

After an unexpectedly soft start to the year, revenue generated by casinos and video gaming terminals across Illinois bounced back slightly in February, but still fell short of late 2021 numbers, according to figures released by the Illinois Gaming Board. Casino revenue excluding sports wagering at the state's 11 venues totaled $93.6 million, an…

Finance ・ 22 October 2022

Chicago Gov

Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot Announces Shortlisted Candidates for City’s Sole Casino License

CHICAGO -Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot today announced the City has shortlisted three bidders to progress to the next stage of the bidding process for the city's sole casino license. Following extensive evaluations, Bally's Corporation at the Tribune Site, Hard Rock at the ONE Central Site, and Rivers 78 at the 78 site (listed in alphabetical order) have…

Sports ・ 21 October 2022

Chicago Tribune

Love Chicago? You likely give thumbs-up to the casino plan

When Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced that she had selected the only North Side option for the city's first casino, she riled many aldermen, especially those who had hoped for a different location. But most Cook County residents, it turns out, are A-OK with her choice. Time will tell whether Lightfoot's casino pays off in jobs and economic growth,…

Strategy Guide ・ 26 August 2022

GMToday

Bally’s files application with state for first Chicago casino

Bally's filed its application with the Illinois Gaming Board on Wednesday, taking a major step in the process to build Chicago's first casino and the flagship property for its fast-growing company. The application was posted on the gaming board website Thursday morning. The clock is now running for the publicly traded Rhode Island-based company to…

Travel ・ 12 August 2022

ABC 7 Chicago

Casino Chicago: Bally's play for long-awaited location at Halsted, Chicago in River West now up to IL regulators

CHICAGO -- State gambling regulators now hold the cards in Chicago's casino game. Bally's Corporation on Wednesday filed its application with the Illinois Gaming Board seeking approval of its plan for a $1.7 billion riverfront casino-resort at Chicago Avenue and Halsted Street. It's the latest step toward breaking ground on the massive…

Travel ・ 12 August 2022

Chicago Sun Times

Bally’s files Illinois Gaming Board application for Chicago casino

State gambling regulators now hold the cards in Chicago's casino game. Bally's Corporation on Wednesday filed its application with the Illinois Gaming Board seeking approval of its plan for a $1.7 billion riverfront casino-resort at Chicago Avenue and Halsted Street. It's the latest step toward breaking ground on the massive entertainment complex…

Travel ・ 11 August 2022

US Bets

Bally's Submits Application For Downtown Chicago Casino License

Bally's formally submitted its application for a casino license to the Illinois Gaming Board on Wednesday, seeking to build a $1.7 billion venue in the River West neighborhood of the third-largest city in the United States. If the IGB approves the application, Bally's would operate a temporary casino at Medinah Temple in nearby River North while…

Travel ・ 11 August 2022

Chicago Tribune

Daywatch: Application filed for Chicago’s first casino

Bally's filed its application with the Illinois Gaming Board, taking a major step in the process to build Chicago's first casino and the flagship property for its fast-growing company. The clock is now running for the publicly traded Rhode Island-based company to win license approval from the state, finalize its proposal with the city's planning…

Finance ・ 11 August 2022

Herald & Review

Bally's pays Chicago $40 million upfront fee for new casino

Money from Chicago's new casino already is rolling in years before the $1.74 billion gaming and entertainment destination even is constructed northwest of the Loop. Rhode Island-based Bally's Corp. this week paid $40 million to Chicago in accordance with the casino development agreement recently inked between Bally's and the city. The money is…

Law ・ 17 June 2022

KPVI

Bally's pays Chicago $40 million up-front fee for new casino

Money from Chicago's new casino already is rolling in years before the $1.74 billion gaming and entertainment destination even is constructed northwest of the Loop. Rhode Island-based Bally's Corp. this week paid $40 million to Chicago in accordance with the casino development agreement recently inked between Bally's and the city. The money is…

Law ・ 17 June 2022

Gambling News

Bally’s Makes Its $40 Million Chicago Casino Pledge, Mayor Confirms

Chicago's long-awaited casino has just moved one step closer as Bally's paid its $40 million pledge to the city. The mayor of Chicago, Lori Lightfoot, confirmed the news on Thursday and thanks to this development, the $1.7-billion project can enter the next phase of development. The proposed Bally's casino in Chicago will be located at Tribune…

Jobs ・ 17 June 2022

Block Club Chicago

City Receives Bally's $40M Upfront Payment For Chicago's 1st Casino

CHICAGO - The promised ten-figure payment to make Chicago's first casino a reality is in city's coffers. Bally's has paid the $40 million it pledged as part of its pitch for the $1.7 billion riverfront casino and resort at the Tribune Publishing site in River West, Mayor Lori Lightfoot said in a statement Thursday. The money, which was a major…

Jobs ・ 16 June 2022

REJournals

Bally’s hits the jackpot with approval for $1.7 billion casino plan for River West

The Bally's Corporation proposal to build a casino/entertainment venue in River West was officially given the go-ahead on May 25 by the Chicago City Council, reported Urbanize Chicago. Bally's $1.7 billion plan is welcome news for most, as Mayor Lori Lightfoot has worked to bring a casino into Chicago as a new revenue stream to bridge the gap for…

Winnings ・ 01 June 2022

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Bally's Corporation River West Casino Project Approved, Chicago

The River West casino and entertainment venue proposed by Bally's Corporation has been approved by the Chicago City Council. The US$ 1.7 billion project will replace the Chicago Tribune printing factory on the west bank of the Chicago River between W. Chicago Avenue and W. Grand Avenue. The process has been years in the works, with mayor Lori…

Jobs ・ 28 May 2022

Vegas Slots Online

Chicago City Council Approves Bally's $1.7bn Casino Plan

It appears that Chicago will soon have its first-ever casino after the City Council gave the Bally's project its support. Following a 41-7 council vote on Wednesday in favor of the casino project proceeding, the final step is for the Illinois Gaming Board to approve the casino. despite some alderpeople and local residents airing their concerns The…

Jobs ・ 26 May 2022

WTTW

Chicago City Council Votes 41-7 to Approve Bally’s River West Casino

The Chicago City Council voted 41-7 on Wednesday to go all in on a plan from Bally's to build a casino in River West, capping a 30-year odyssey and handing Mayor Lori Lightfoot a significant victory as she prepares to run for a second term as Chicago mayor. The $1.73 billion proposal now heads to the Illinois Gaming Board, which must license…

Covid ・ 26 May 2022

KPVI

City Council endorses Bally's $1.7 billion Chicago casino plan

The Chicago City Council overwhelmingly agreed Wednesday to support a plan by Rhode Island-based Bally's Corp. to construct and operate a $1.7 billion casino, hotel and entertainment facility northwest of the Loop, near the southern tip of Goose Island. The Democratic-controlled council voted 41-7 to endorse Mayor Lori Lightfoot's recommendation…

Politics ・ 25 May 2022

Block Club Chicago

Chicago Casino Approved By City Council After Screaming Match Between Mayor, Alderman

CHICAGO - Chicago's first casino is almost a done deal after City Council approved the plan Wednesday. Bally's plan to build a $1.7 billion riverfront casino and resort at the Tribune Publishing site in River West was approved by a 41-7 vote. Now it heads to the Illinois Gaming Board for final approval. See how your alderperson voted: Wednesday's…

Mobile ・ 25 May 2022

Chicago Sun Times

Chicago City Council approves Bally’s $1.7 billion casino in River West

Chicago's 30-year quest for a casino and entertainment complex is drawing to a close, amid hopes it will produce the jackpot needed to bail out police and fire pension funds. Less than three weeks after Mayor Lori Lightfoot put her chips on Bally's $1.7 billion River West bid, the City Council authorized Bally's to build a permanent casino at…

Law ・ 25 May 2022

Chicago Reader

Who's left out of the casino?

On Wednesday, the city council approved a plan to offer Chicago's sole casino license to Bally's Corporation, 41 - 7, with one recusal. Alderpersons Brian Hopkins (2nd Ward), Anthony Beale (9th), Ed Burke (14th), Ray Lopez (15th), Byron Sigcho-Lopez (25th), Brendan Reilly (42nd), and Michele Smith (43rd) voted against the proposal. Alderperson…

Land-based ・ 25 May 2022

CBS News

City Council approves Bally's plan for River West casino

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Aldermen on Wednesday overwhelmingly approved Mayor Lori Lightfoot's push for Bally's to build the city's first casino in the River West neighborhood, despite complaints from some critics that the project was rushed through City Council, and that the projected $200 million in annual tax revenue the project is estimated to bring to…

Land-based ・ 25 May 2022

CBS News

Bally's proposal for River West casino wins first key vote, with final City Council approval on tap for Wednesday

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Mayor Lori Lightfoot's push for Bally's to build the city's first casino in the River West neighborhood cleared its first major hurdle on Monday, as a key city panel approved the plan, setting up a final City Council vote on Wednesday. The City Council's Special Committee on the Chicago Casino voted 27-3 to approve an ordinance…

Land-based ・ 24 May 2022

WTTW

Chicago Casino Plan Poised for Approval Later This Week After Initial City Council Vote

Mayor Lori Lightfoot's decision to tap Bally's to build a casino in River West won the approval of 27 members of the Chicago City Council on Monday, setting the $1.73 billion proposal up for a final vote on Wednesday. Only three members of the special City Council committee created by Lightfoot to consider the casino proposal voted against the…

Covid ・ 24 May 2022

WBEZ Chicago

Chicago’s City Council moves forward on casino

Chicago's City Council is doing parliamentary backflips to vote on a casino this week - a timeline requested by Mayor Lori Lightfoot. Aldermen on a special committee Monday voted 27 to 3 to advance Lightfoot's pick for Chicago's first casino, setting it up for a final vote on Wednesday. Aldermen had to meet for a full council meeting in the…

Jobs ・ 23 May 2022

Chicago Sun Times

$1.7B Bally’s Chicago casino clears key hurdle in City Council

Mayor Lori Lightfoot's race to secure $40 million in upfront payments from Bally's to keep police and fire pensions solvent and stave off a pre-election property tax increase cleared a key hurdle Monday with committee approval of a long-sought Chicago casino. Thanks to the lobbying muscle of organized labor, a special City Council committee stacked…

Trust and Safety ・ 23 May 2022

CBS News

First vote on Bally's plan for River West casino delayed, amid ongoing questions, complaints from aldermen

CHICAGO (CBS) -- The first expected vote on Mayor Lori Lightfoot's push for Bally's to build a $1.74 billion casino in River West was called off on Friday, as aldermen continued to raise questions about the project, but the mayor is still hoping to get it approved by next week. The City Council's Special Casino Committee had been expected to vote…

Land-based ・ 21 May 2022

Chicago Sun Times

Lightfoot pushing for Friday vote on casino ordinance and host agreement with Bally’s authorizing River West casino

Mayor Lori Lightfoot is pushing for a Friday vote-on an ordinance authorizing a Chicago casino and a host agreement with Bally's-in an apparent rush to secure a $40 million upfront payment for her pre-election budget. The City Council committee created to purportedly deal with "all matters" pertaining to a Chicago casino was not asked to weigh in…

Politics ・ 18 May 2022

US Bets

Illinois Casino Revenue Surges To $122 Million For April

As a vote nears on whether the Chicago City Council will present Bally's to the Illinois Gaming Board as its applicant for a downtown casino license, the state's venues already in play posted revenue gains for a third consecutive month in April, ending up at $122.4 million. The revenue figure is a 15.9% improvement on March's total of $105.7…

Finance ・ 17 May 2022

The Quad City Times

How regulators will try to ensure Chicago’s first-ever casino is free of corruption

CHICAGO - A decade ago, Chicago was on the verge of getting its first-ever casino, a controversial idea that nevertheless received legislative approval before it was vetoed by then-Gov. Pat Quinn because, in his words, the bill contained "loopholes for mobsters." Quinn, a self-styled outsider among Illinois Democrats, was by no means the first to…

Politics ・ 16 May 2022

The Real Deal

Chicago Medinah Temple to be temporary casino despite opposition

One week after winning a hard-fought campaign to develop Chicago's first casino, Bally's is learning that the city's most-used nickname has less to do with Lake Michigan's icy breeze than its bloviating politicians. Aldermen are up in arms and there's even an allegation floating around that the mayor got bought off - for the chump-change sum of…

Sports ・ 15 May 2022

WTTW

Lightfoot’s Casino Pick Not a Done Deal, City Council Members Say

Video: Alderpeople Jeanette Taylor, George Cardenas, Jason Ervin, and Walter Burnett join "Chicago Tonight" to discuss the proposal for a Chicago casino. (Produced by Blair Paddock) Mayor Lori Lightfoot wants the Chicago City Council to go all-in on her decision to tap Bally's to build a casino in River West in two weeks - but several members of…

Politics ・ 11 May 2022

The Real Deal

Suburban Chicago Casinos Nearing Construction

Bally's isn't the only casino operator taking big steps forward on development plans in the Chicago area this month. As the gambling industry focused on Bally's selection last week for the city's first casino, Full House Resorts finalized an agreement with the far north suburb of Waukegan to clear the way for a temporary casino to open next to…

Travel ・ 10 May 2022

Chicago Tribune

Column: Chicago rushes to approve casino deal while south suburbs hit jackpot with trusted partner

Chicago's rush to approve a $1.7 billion casino deal represents a shocking contrast to Wind Creek's plans to build an entertainment complex in East Hazel Crest and Homewood. The Southland seems to have hit the jackpot with a developer committed to building long-term partnerships. Chicago risks making a bad deal by moving too quickly, some aldermen…

Winnings ・ 10 May 2022

Yogonet

Chicago Mayor denies reports of Bally's selected as casino license winner

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Tuesday denied reports from multiple news outlets that alleged that the city has chosen Bally's proposal at the Chicago Tribune printing site to become Chicago's first casino. She said the special committee tasked with evaluating all three casino bids has not yet completed its work. Bally's $2 billion project, which…

Jobs ・ 10 May 2022

WTTW

Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s Casino Pick Gets Cool Reception from Chicago City Council Members

Members of the Chicago City Council gave Mayor Lori Lightfoot's decision to place a high-stakes bet on Bally's to build a casino in River West a cool reception on Monday, even as the mayor's team urged them to quickly approve the proposal and avert massive property tax hikes. While members of the Lightfoot administration touted the proposal from…

Covid ・ 10 May 2022

Times Of Casino

Mayor Lori Lightfoot Picks Gambling Site at River West

Mayor Lori Lightfoot has picked a gambling complex located at River West for a casino license, something that the region has been seeking for a long time. The move is in a bid to accelerate the financial health of Chicago and keep the regional money within the state. Bally's hopes to add it as a flagship location for its chain that already…

Gambling Sites ・ 06 May 2022

Market Watch

Chicago picks Bally's and riverfront location for $1.7 billion-plus in-town casino

Chicago has picked Bally's BALY, -1.31% to develop and operate the city's first in-town casino, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced late Thursday, saying Bally's was alone among the rival bidders in having secured an agreement with organized labor and had made the strongest financial offer to the city, including of $40 million. The, comprising a…

Industry ・ 06 May 2022

Chicago Tribune

A casino for River West gets Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s nod. What’s in the plan and what happens next?

After a 30-year effort, Chicago has a casino deal on the table. Here's a look at what the proposal includes, what is expected to happen next and when a printing plant could be replaced with a gambling palace - if nothing derails the plans. The entertainment complex's plans include a 500-room hotel tower, a 3000-seat theater, an outdoor music venue…

Jobs ・ 06 May 2022

WGN Radio

Ald. Brian Hopkins on Bally’s winning the Chicago casino bid: ‘I’m against the proposal and I’m against the process’

2nd Ward Ald. Brian Hopkins joins John Williams to talk about Mayor Lightfoot announcing her preference that Bally's be awarded Chicago's first casino license in River West at the Tribune Publishing site (currently owned by WGN Radio parent company Nexstar). The John Williams Show Weekdays 10 a.m. - noon, 1 - 2 p.m. Focusing on current events, John…

Movies ・ 06 May 2022

Review Journal

Bally’s Tribune site bid selected for Chicago casino operation

Bally's Corp., a fast-growing Rhode Island gaming company that is in the process of acquiring operations of the Tropicana in Las Vegas, has been selected as the sole licensee of Chicago's planned casino. Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Thursday announced the $1.7 billion casino resort would be built on the site of the Tribune Publishing Center near…

Covid ・ 06 May 2022

Chicago Sun Times

Chicago casino: Lightfoot picks Bally’s proposal at Tribune printing plant site

Mayor Lori Lightfoot is betting big on Bally's. Lightfoot on Thursday confirmed the East Coast gambling company as her pick to run the city's coveted casino at the busy River West site of the Chicago Tribune's Freedom Center printing plant. The mayor's choice for the house of chance, first reported Tuesday by the Chicago Sun-Times, marks an upset…

Land-based ・ 06 May 2022

Vegas Slots Online

Bally’s Is Winning Bidder for Chicago's First Casino License

Bally's Corporation is the successful candidate for the first-ever Chicago casino license. Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced the selection on Thursday after rumors had made the rounds for a number of days that Bally's was her preferred option over two competing bids. The Chicago City Council still needs to give its seal of approval to Bally's.…

Jobs ・ 06 May 2022

Chicago Tribune

Aldermen push back on three Chicago casino finalists, as city looks to select a winner ‘within a month’

Aldermen are pushing back against the three proposed finalists for a Chicago casino, as the city nears a final selection amid growing concern from residents about locating a casino in their backyards. The Special Committee on the Chicago Casino, which was created last month to help winnow the casino proposals from three to one, fielded questions at…

Finance ・ 26 April 2022

Chicago Sun Times

Labor groups join aldermen in critique of casino plans over lack of living wage guarantees

Chicago's casino proposals, already getting berated from neighbors close to the three potential sites, drew fire Monday from organized labor groups who want the gambling kingpins to accept a unionized labor force. Alderpersons eagerly supported that demand. None of the casino applicants has agreed to negotiate with unions traditionally in the…

Mobile ・ 26 April 2022

NBC Chicago

Which Neighborhoods is Chicago Proposing to Build a Casino in? Here are the 3 Possible Locations

The city of Chicago is getting closer to selecting a final location to build a proposed casino, a project that Mayor Lori Lightfoot says would bring in $175-$195 million in projected tax revenue. "The revenue is gonna shore up our police and fire pensions, critically important," Lightfoot said. "It's gonna relieve the burden on our…

Industry ・ 25 April 2022

NBC Chicago

Chicago’s 3 Proposed Casino Sites Continue to Draw Opposition From Some Residents, Special Meeting Planned

The city of Chicago is holding a special meeting Monday to weigh in on where to put the city's first casino. But not all residents from those neighborhoods are on board. The three neighborhoods in consideration include the South Loop, which includes Chinatown and Pilsen, the area just west of Soldier Field, and River West. Each of those locations…

Finance ・ 25 April 2022

Vegas Slots Online

Chicago Chinatown Residents Protest New Casino Proposal

A small but influential group of demonstrators gathered in Chicago's Chinatown over the weekend to protest the proposed site for Rush Street Gaming's $1.62bn project just north of the historic neighborhood. Sunday's protesters included Dr. Hong Liu of the Midwest Asian Health Association (MAHA), and Chinatown resident Dr. Kim Tee, who is also…

Law ・ 25 April 2022

Block Club Chicago

Chicago Casino Plans Rejected By All 3 Alderpeople Who Represent Potential Sites

RIVER WEST - Chicago is making grand plans to open a world-class casino - but none of the alderpeople who represent the potential sites want a gambling mecca in their ward. Ald. Walter Burnett Jr. (27th) is the latest alderperson to say he doesn't want a casino as Bally's is lobbying to open at the Tribune Publishing site in his ward. Burnett's…

Travel ・ 21 April 2022

Block Club Chicago

Ald. Pat Dowell Says She 'Cannot Support' Hard Rock Casino Proposal Near Soldier Field

CHICAGO - Ald. Pat Dowell (3rd) "cannot support" Hard Rock International's plan to open a casino as part of a proposed mega-development in her ward, she announced Monday, citing neighbors' fears of crime and overcrowding. Her position leaves just one casino proposal - Rhode Island-based Bally's plan to build a resort in River West - whose local…

Land-based ・ 19 April 2022

WTTW

‘Chicago Tonight’ in Your Neighborhood: Proposed Casino Sites

Mayor Lori Lightfoot is betting on a casino for the city of Chicago by 2025, with three finalists on the table, but not everyone is on the same page. Bally's It would have 3400 slots and 173 table games as well as a 500-room hotel in the River West neighborhood. According to Brian Israel, president of the River North Residents Association, "They…

Covid ・ 15 April 2022

Vegas Slots Online

Chicago Casino Plans Hit Some Hurdles on Final Stretch

Local residents have expressed concerns about the development proposals for a casino in Chicago. [Image: Shutterstock.com] As three finalists battle it out for the chance to develop Chicago's first casino, they are facing some opposition from local residents. Community meetings have taken place, allowing the public to share their thoughts on the…

Covid ・ 13 April 2022

WTTW

Hammered by Complaints, Push for Chicago Casino Faces Bumpy Final Stretch

None of the Chicago casino finalists rolled double sixes at community meetings staged by Mayor Lori Lightfoot, complicating the future of the gaming palace and entertainment district officials contend is key to the city's financial future. While city officials touted the meetings as a chance for Chicagoans to weigh in on the three finalists…

Covid ・ 12 April 2022

Crain's Complete Business

Chicago casino bidder Rivers 78 faces public scrutiny at hearing

The Rivers 78 casino proposed for the vacant mega-development along the South Branch of the Chicago River is the only finalist where a casino would be built first with a neighborhood sprouting up around it, the backers of the plan emphasized Thursday. That observation came at the last of three community meetings held this week by Mayor Lori…

Politics ・ 08 April 2022

US Bets

Bally's Makes Its Pitch For Chicago Casino At Tribune Site

Bally's Chairman Soo Kim promised to find ways to alleviate traffic concerns, integrate into the River West community, and showcase the "best of Chicago" on Wednesday evening in leading the pitch to local residents for why Bally's should be the operator Mayor Lori Lightfoot chooses for the highly sought downtown casino license. Bally's was one…

Strategy Guide ・ 07 April 2022

Crain's Complete Business

Bally's casino proposal on Tribune Publishing site gets pushback in public hearing

Amid vocal opposition, the backers of Bally's casino proposal at the Tribune Publishing site along the Chicago River argued Wednesday night their plan would decrease traffic and increase public space over what is already permitted to be built at the site. The $1.74 billion casino and hotel along the North Branch of the Chicago River, between…

Sports ・ 07 April 2022

NBC Chicago

Residents Weigh In on Finalists for Billion-Dollar Chicago Casino Project

Chicago residents are weighing in on proposed locations for a new casino in the city as public meetings are held for each of the finalists. Beginning Tuesday and continuing through Thursday, the city will hold community engagement meetings for Bally's Tribune, Hard Rock and Rivers 78. The meetings will be livestreamed, and in-person priority will…

Sports ・ 06 April 2022

Crain's Complete Business

Chicago casino bidders get grilled in first public hearing

The first of three high-stakes meetings for the finalists hoping to win Chicago's sole casino license kicked off Tuesday as Hard Rock Chicago tried to convince a skeptical audience its proposal wasn't tethered to a larger development in need of $6.5 billion in state assistance. The meetings represent an opportunity for Hard Rock, Bally's and Rivers…

Travel ・ 06 April 2022

Crain's Complete Business

Chicago alderman oppose proposed casino sites

Mayor Lori Lightfoot will have her work cut out for her as the city tomorrow begins public hearings on the three finalists to own and operate the proposed Chicago casino. The problem: overcoming moderate to strong community opposition to each of the sites, with some aldermen stopping just short of declaring "not in my ward." For instance, Ald.…

Politics ・ 04 April 2022

Chicago Sun Times

Lightfoot accused of ‘stacking the deck’ on Chicago casino committee

Mayor Lori Lightfoot was accused Wednesday of "stacking the deck" by appointing a special committee of the City Council on the Chicago casino composed only of her handpicked leadership team. After narrowing the list of potential Chicago casino sites from five locations to three, Lightfoot has asked Zoning Committee Chair Tom Tunney (44th) to chair…

Incidents ・ 23 March 2022

Yogonet

Bally's, Hard Rock, Rush Street finalists for Chicago casino license; two McCormick Place bids out after concerns

Chicago is now a little closer to opening its first casino after Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot's announcement Tuesday that the city has shortlisted three bidders to move to the next stage of the bidding process for the sole casino license. Bally's Corporation at the Tribune Site, Hard Rock at the ONE Central Site, and Rush Street Gaming's Rivers 78 at…

Sports ・ 23 March 2022

Vegas Slots Online

Bally’s, Rush Street, Hard Rock on Chicago Casino Shortlist

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has whittled down the list of proposals in the race to build the city's first casino. The mayor announced on Tuesday that she has selected three plans from the five bids, including proposals from Bally's Corporation, Rush Street Gaming, and Hard Rock International. Each of the finalists has its own proposed development…

Law ・ 23 March 2022

Block Club Chicago

Chicago Casino Finalists Include Rivers At South Loop's 78, Hard Rock Near Soldier Field And Bally's In River West

SOUTH LOOP - The 78 megadevelopment, along with the Tribune Publishing Center and the One Central project site are all in the running to host Chicago's first casino. Mayor Lori Lightfoot's office announced Tuesday the list had been narrowed down from five locations to those three - kicking the Michael Reese megadevelopment and McCormick Place off…

Land-based ・ 22 March 2022

Patch

City Hall Narrows Field For Chicago Casino To Three Locations

CHICAGO - City Hall narrowed the field of bidders looking to develop Chicago's only casino to three. None of them include building a mega-gaming parlor at McCormick Place. On Tuesday, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced that pitches from Bally's Corp., Hard Rock and Rivers Casino made the city's short list. The finalists include: Bally's Corporation has…

Land-based ・ 22 March 2022