Bally’s unforeseen challenges in Chicago casino

Lea Hogg January 23, 2024

SiGMA news

Bally’s unforeseen challenges in Chicago casino

Bally’s Casino in Chicago faces an unexpected obstacle in its plan to construct a hotel tower on Chicago Avenue. City water pipes discovered on the River West site have prompted a redesign of the initial plan for the permanent casino and entertainment complex.

Unexpected hurdle and revised plan

The original 35-story hotel tower could potentially damage these water pipes, necessitating an alternative location within the 30-acre site. Collaboration with city officials is underway to address this issue, ruling out the north end of the parcel due to unforeseen infrastructure challenges.

The City Council approved the original plan in late 2022, outlining a 100-room hotel along the river at Chicago Avenue. An additional 400 rooms in the tower were proposed for construction in a second phase within five years. However, the risk to major water pipes near the river prompted a reassessment. The revised plan, submitted to the Department of Buildings, proposes a 100-room hotel in a 74-foot tall building near an event space at the south end of the site. Bally’s assures the tower will be constructed elsewhere on the site, although no renderings have been released.

Glimpse into Bally’s background

Operating a temporary casino at the historic Medinah Temple at 600 N. Wabash Ave. since last summer, Bally’s remains committed to its host city agreement with Chicago. This commitment includes the construction of a 65,000-square foot convention centre and a 3,000-seat theatre, among other amenities. Despite underwhelming early returns, Bally’s plans to commence construction on the permanent casino in the summer of 2024, aiming for an opening by September 9, 2026, as required by state law.

River West is a small but vibrant neighbourhood in Chicago, with a rich history of cultural diversity and urban development. The proposed casino and entertainment complex by Bally’s would add to the neighbourhood’s appeal, offering a variety of amenities and attractions for residents and visitors alike.

However, the project also faces some challenges, such as the need to relocate the hotel tower and the potential impact on the city’s water infrastructure. Bally’s remains committed to its host city agreement, and hopes to begin construction in the summer of 2024. The casino and entertainment complex would be a significant addition to River West, and a testament to the neighbourhood’s resilience and dynamism.

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