Bally’s has received approval from city officials to move forward with new hotel design plans after recent setbacks. [Image: Shutterstock.com]
No obstacles
Bally’s Corporation has gotten the green light from Chicago officials to design its new hotel. The Rhode Island-based company is preparing to begin development of the city’s first casino, and suffered a setback when changes had to be made to original plans due to concerns about water mains. The hope is to begin construction in July. The first phase will include a permanent casino and a 100-room hotel.
The new plan does not need approval from the City Council
Bally’s originally planned to build an additional 400-room hotel on top as part of the second phase before water pipe issues arose. The new plan did not need City Council approval, as the facility would be built on the southern part of the site, not on the northern end near the Chicago River.
Some concerns from local residents
A spokesperson for Bally’s welcomed city Zoning Administrator Patrick Murphy’s decision to approve the plan on Thursday. The spokesman noted that the new design is fully compliant with all requirements and maintains exactly the same floor area ratio as it was when the company first outlined its intentions. The change in design will not impact the construction start schedule.
The location of the new casino is the Chicago Tribune’s printing plant and the plan is to open the property in 2026.
Not everyone is happy with the changes. The North River Residents Association has consistently fought against the casino project from the beginning due to traffic and public safety concerns. She believes the latest revisions need a transparent and full review that includes input from the community.
Latest results of temporary casino
The temporary casino that Bally built at the Medina Temple during development work has not lived up to expectations so far.
3rd place in rankings of 16 Illinois casinos
It reported profits of $9.3 million last month, putting it third in the rankings of 16 Illinois casinos. That means $913,000 in tax revenue will go to fire and police pensions. Mayor Brandon Johnson had hoped the casino would generate $35 million in tax revenue in 2024.
It also received over 88,000 visits, which places it just behind Rivers Casino in the rankings. Bally’s hopes to improve results by offering more bus and shuttle routes, introducing valet parking, and opening VIP areas.
