CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - The Illinois Gaming Board has given Bally’s preliminary approval to construct a temporary Chicago casino at the historic Medinah Temple.
The corporation confirmed this afternoon the state gaming board ruled in their favor, and they will be able to move forward with developing Bally's Chicago Casino at their desired temporary site. They plan on opening it before the end of the year.
The vote came after the board heard presentations from executives, including Bally's Chicago general manager Mark Wong.
He told the Illinois Gaming Board that the company has a good relationship with people who live and work around the Medinah Temple location.
“Friedman Properties is our landlord, and they’ve had a chance to help make some introductions," Wong said. "We really wanted to pass this stage first before we continue on, meeting some of the neighbors, but certainly it’s been a good start through our relationship with Friedman Properties."
Bally’s says the new casino will create around 700 new jobs.
Illinois Gaming Board chairman Charles Schmadeke said he's pleased to hear Bally's report that about two-thirds of their employees so far are women, people of color or veterans.
“The benefits of gaming in Illinois should benefit all Illinois, not just a particular segment,” Schmadeke said.
Bally's will need to clear several more regulatory hurdles. Thursday's ruling does not apply to the corporation's permanent casino site at the old Tribune printing plant near Goose Island.
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