McCormick Place officials leery of a casino use for the center

McCormick Place file photo
McCormick Place in April 2020. Photo credit Photo by Chris Sweda-Pool via Getty Images

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — As Chicago leaders weigh proposals for a casino in the city, the officials who run McCormick Place are raising some concerns about what that could mean for the lakeside convention center.

Of the five bids for a Chicago casino, three include using land or space at McCormick Place.

Cynthia McCafferty, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority that runs McCormick Place, said there are potential problems.

A casino could interfere with McCormick Place's operations, reduce the convention center's capacity, and possibly push out some meetings and shows, she said.

“Some customers stated that they have selected Chicago because there is not a casino on campus. It’s definitely a consideration,” McCafferty added.

She notes that changes in state law might be needed for a casino to be part of the McCormick Place property.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Photo by Chris Sweda-Pool via Getty Images