Bally’s Corporation has taken a significant step towards the construction of its much-anticipated Bally’s Chicago casino by signing a Multi-Project Labor Agreement (PLA) with key trade bodies. This historic agreement with the Chicago & Cook County Building & Construction Trades Council and the AFL-CIO Building and Construction Trades Department underlines Bally’s commitment to embrace organized labor and ensure the project benefits the local community. The casino project, approved by the City Council in May, is expected to create thousands of jobs during construction and permanent roles once operational.
A Community-Centric Approach:
Bally’s Chairman, Soo Kim, emphasized the company’s dedication to reflecting the values of the Chicago community. The PLA serves as a testament to their commitment to collaborate with organized labor, which has played a pivotal role in shaping the city. By prioritizing inclusivity and forming partnerships with the CCBT, Chicago Federation of Labor, and Hire360, Bally’s aims to ensure that its workforce represents the diverse fabric of the city.
Building Jobs for Chicago:
The Bally’s Chicago casino project is set to make a significant impact on the local economy. The company plans to launch a temporary casino in the summer of 2023, followed by a permanent establishment in late 2025 or early 2026. During construction, the project is expected to create approximately 3,000 jobs each year, providing a boost to the construction industry. Moreover, once the casino is fully operational, it is projected to generate 3,000 permanent roles, offering stable employment opportunities for residents.
Strong Labor Partnerships:
The Chicago & Cook County Building & Construction Trades Council and the AFL-CIO Building and Construction Trades Department have shown their support for the project through the PLA. The agreement demonstrates a shared commitment to good-paying jobs and the well-being of the hard-working people of Chicago. By coming together, Bally’s and the trade bodies aim to build the first and only casino in the city, ensuring it is a project by Chicago, for Chicago.
Casino Community Advisory Council (CAC):
To foster community engagement and gather valuable input from residents, Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot established the Casino Community Advisory Council (CAC). The council acts as a platform for community members, groups, and experts to share their insights and opinions on the Bally’s casino project. This proactive approach ensures that local voices are heard, and the development aligns with the needs and expectations of the community.
Bally’s Ambitious Casino Project:
Bally’s Corporation’s proposal for the Chicago casino envisions a state-of-the-art facility at the intersection of Chicago Avenue and Halstead Street. The ambitious $1.7 billion project aims to provide an all-encompassing entertainment experience with 3,400 slots, 170 table games, 500 hotel rooms, six restaurants, three bars, a 3,000-seat theater, an outdoor park, and various amenities. This expansive offering will undoubtedly contribute to the city’s vibrant entertainment landscape.
The Road Ahead:
Having been selected to build and operate Chicago’s first casino, Bally’s Corporation is now on track to create an iconic gaming destination in the heart of the city. The company’s commitment to upholding a higher standard of employment and inclusivity aligns with the city’s vision for a prosperous and diverse future. With the construction set to begin and partnerships in place, Bally’s Chicago casino is poised to become a symbol of community collaboration and growth.