(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- After years of debate and delay, gambling in the city of Chicago could start as soon as this weekend, at the Bally’s temporary casino in the old Medinah Temple.
Regional General Manger Ameet Patel says Bally’s has preserved some of the original stained-glass windows at the River North building. He said the venture will pay homage to the Shriners, who built the temple in 1912, through a mural on the lower level painted by a local artist.
“We want to make sure that it’s the pride of the community,” Patel said. “We want to make sure it’s a showcase for families and friends.”
During a tour of the property Tuesday, WBBM Newsradio saw some of the brightly colored 750 slot machines and 56 table games across three floors.
The offerings will include craps, blackjack, roulette and baccarat, Patel said.
Patel said 16,000 have applied for the casino’s 700 jobs.
Before the doors can open, regulators with the Illinois Gaming Board will test all aspects of the operation -- from food and beverage to security and service.
Patel says Bally’s hopes to get the results of that assessment by Friday and an opening date from regulators.
The ultimate goal of the company is to open a permanent casino in nearby River West.
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