Residents Weigh In on Finalists for Billion-Dollar Chicago Casino Project
Residents are taking part in public meetings for Bally's Tribune, Hard Rock Chicago and Rivers 78. The finalists will be evaluated by city officials and a winning bid will then be chosen. The Chicago City Council and the Illinois Gaming Board will have to sign off on the chosen bid. City officials expect the casino site to generate approximately $400 million in revenue per year. It will also support the tourism industry and economic development initiatives. Mayor Lori Lightfoot's office announced that three bidders advanced to the next stage in the competition for a license.
Bally's Corporation proposes a $1.74 billion casino project and hotel in the River West neighborhood. Hard Rock proposes to build a casino resort on Chicago's lakefront. Rivers 78 proposes $2.62 billion project on the site known as "The 78" on South Side. The temporary casino could open in 2024, and the permanent one in late 2025.
