The Bally’s Chicago Casino project has received site approval from the city’s Planning and Development Department. The proposed development will be situated on the 30-acre site of the former Chicago Tribune printing press, located at 777 W. Chicago Avenue. The project is set to be a major addition to the city’s entertainment landscape and will include a variety of high-end amenities and spaces for both entertainment and relaxation.

Project Specifications and Design Features

Bally’s plans for the $1.7 billion casino include a 500-room, 34-story hotel tower, featuring an extensive pool spa, fitness center, sun deck, and rooftop restaurant bar. The hotel will be a centerpiece of the development, offering visitors an elevated experience with sweeping views of the Chicago skyline and the nearby river.

Additionally, the casino will offer a 3,000-seat theater, six restaurants, multiple cafes, a food hall, and a 2-acre public park. One of the key features of the project will be the extension of the riverwalk, with a 2,000-foot-long connection to the lower riverbank, further enhancing the public space and adding to the area's walkability and scenic value.

George Papanier, President of Bally’s Corporation, expressed excitement about the project’s progress:
“We’ve been working hard in the background to restore the full hotel tower for Bally’s Chicago Casino and absolutely intend to meet the September 2026 opening date as planned. We are also happy to announce that Gaming and Leisure Properties has agreed to finance this entire development in a single phase to ultimately deliver a better project in a more efficient manner.”

Financing and Strategic Alliances

Bally’s entered into a strategic alliance with Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc. (GLPI), which has committed to providing $2.07 billion in financing for the casino’s construction. The project is being funded through a binding term sheet that includes $940 million in construction funding from GLPI. GLPI’s experience in the gaming and entertainment industry will be crucial in ensuring the timely and successful delivery of the project.

The construction managers overseeing the project include Powers & Sons Construction from Gary, Indiana, and Gilbane Building Co. from Providence, Rhode Island. Both companies bring significant experience in large-scale construction and development projects.

Design and Architecture

The design for Bally’s Chicago Casino is being handled by HKS, a global design firm with an office in Chicago. The firm has designed some of the most recognizable resorts and hotels, including the Grand Hyatt Nashville, MGM National Harbor, and The Venetian Macao. The design for the casino is expected to contribute significantly to the Chicago riverfront skyline. Drawing inspiration from the Chicago River, the building will feature a dynamic, undulating façade that reflects the natural flow and activity of the river, enhancing the city’s architectural history.

“We are proud to be part of the new site plan for Bally’s Chicago Casino, which highlights a commitment to innovative and iconic design that not only preserves essential infrastructure but also elevates the architectural magnificence of Chicago’s skyline,” said Jess Corrigan, Partner and Regional Practice Director at HKS.

Community Impact and Construction Jobs

The Chicago Community Builders Collective (CCBC), a minority-led construction partnership, is set to play a major role in the implementation of the project. The CCBC is committed to ensuring that the project brings economic growth, job creation, and vibrant entertainment to the local community.

“We at the Chicago Community Builders Collective are thrilled about the future of Bally’s Chicago Casino and are excited to see this project come to fruition,” said Jimmy Akintonde, CCBC member and President & CEO of Ujamaa Construction. “As the general contractor, we are proud to be at the forefront of this significant development that promises to bring jobs, economic growth, and vibrant entertainment to our city. We look forward to this project’s positive impact on Chicago and are committed to ensuring its success.”

A Transformative Development for Chicago

The Bally’s Chicago Casino is expected to be a transformative project for the city, creating 3,000 construction jobs and potentially offering thousands of permanent positions once operational. The project will also bring significant economic benefits, attracting visitors to the city and contributing to the growing tourism and entertainment sector. With the strategic financing from GLPI and the expertise of the construction and design teams, the project is well on track to become one of the most iconic developments in the city’s history.

The casino is expected to play a vital role in Chicago’s entertainment landscape, providing world-class amenities and experiences while contributing to the city’s economic revitalization. The September 2026 opening date is set to mark the completion of what will be a landmark development, shaping the future of Chicago’s riverfront for years to come.

Originally reported by Chicago Construction News.