Bally’s billion-dollar casino project recently had its formal site plan approved by the Chicago Department of Planning and Development while a smaller and far less expensive project is reported to be hitting its deadlines in Aurora.
Let’s take a closer look at both projects and how they might impact top-rated sportsbooks operating in Illinois.
Tribune Freedom Center Demolition
The demolition of the Tribune Freedom Center hit a snag in December when demolition debris was sent tumbling into the Chicago River to make way for Bally’s Chicago Casino. The mishap caused a pause in the demolition, but fortunately for Bally’s, no fines were issued as a result.
Bally’s and its contractor, Chicago Community Builders Collective, issued a statement that the materials entering the river were non-toxic and posed no health threat to the community. “We regret this incident occurred and have worked diligently to clean up the non-toxic material from the river,” the companies said. “We will respond quickly to any additional debris reports while making every effort to prevent future incidents as demolition continues.”
Since that time, demolition has resumed and is nearly complete, which will be the site of the future 34-story and 500-room tower located on the southern end of the casino development project near Ohio Street and abutting the Chicago River. The plans also call for a 3000-seat theater as well as a 2500-spot parking capacity, six restaurants, cafes, a food hall and a two-acre public park.
The casino is expected to house 3000 slot machines along with 173 table games and VIP gaming areas. The lower riverbank will be connected to the property via an approximately 2000-foot extension of the riverwalk.
The cost of the casino is projected to be $1.7 billion, and although construction is still months away, there has been no adjustment to the end of 2026 as its completion date.
Aurora Reports on Time and on Budget
Less than an hour due east of the massive Bally’s casino complex is another brand-new casino being built in Aurora. The Hollywood Casino-Aurora is reportedly hitting the mark on its timelines and is on budget for the $360 million project located at Farnsworth Avenue and Bilter Road and near the Interstate 88 interchange.
This seven-story hotel and casino will be replacing the one in downtown Aurora and will feature 220 hotel rooms, a 1,000-car parking garage, 1,200 gaming positions, a retail sportsbook and an outdoor entertainment venue. Dining options will be plentiful, and a full-service day spa will also be included along with an approximately 12,000-square-foot convention area.
Construction began in November 2023, and it has passed over 600 inspections. Aurora Chief Development Services Officer John Curley said the project has gone well, and cooperation between the company, Penn Entertainment, its contractors and subs has played a large part in getting the project done on time and without any major disruptions.
The casino currently has 400 staff members, but job fairs are being held to double that number.
