Bally’s, the renowned entertainment brand, has recently obtained approval from the city of Chicago for its updated plans concerning the development of a $1.7 billion downtown casino. The revision was necessitated by underground infrastructure challenges at the originally proposed location. Despite the adjustments, Bally’s remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering a world-class entertainment complex in River West by adhering to city requirements and maintaining construction timelines.
Revised Plan Overview:
Initially, the construction blueprint included a phased approach, with a portion of the hotel to be situated on the north end of the plot. However, due to underground infrastructure constraints, the design underwent modification. The updated plan relocates 400 hotel rooms, with 100 rooms now positioned in a three-story structure atop the casino complex’s northeast corner, and the remaining 400 rooms earmarked for a subsequent construction phase. Notably, these adjustments only affect Planned Development’s Sub-Area A, comprising 100 of the planned 500 rooms. The revised design underwent comprehensive review by various city departments and agencies, culminating in approval by the Zoning Administrator.
Statement from Bally’s Chicago Spokesperson:
A spokesperson for Bally’s Chicago expressed satisfaction with the collaborative effort undertaken with Chicago departments and agencies to address critical infrastructure concerns. Emphasizing adherence to city regulations and timelines, the spokesperson affirmed that the approved revision positions the project for timely commencement of construction on the envisioned entertainment complex in River West during the summer.
Project Progress and Timeline:
While Bally’s temporary casino commenced operations in November, boasting 750 slot machines and 50 table games, the permanent establishment is slated for the 30-acre Chicago Tribune Publishing Center. The ambitious project aims to feature 3,400 slots, 170 table games, and a diverse array of food and beverage venues. Despite the redesign, Bally’s Chairman Soo Kim has assured stakeholders that the project’s opening, scheduled for 2026, remains unaffected.
Bally’s Chicago Casino Project has navigated through challenges posed by underground infrastructure issues by securing approval for revised plans from the city of Chicago. The collaboration between Bally’s and relevant city departments underscores a commitment to regulatory compliance and timely execution. As construction progresses, the project stands poised to transform the River West landscape into a vibrant hub of entertainment and leisure, fulfilling Bally’s vision for a world-class casino experience in the heart of Chicago.