(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- After much anticipation and controversy, the Bally's temporary casino in the old Medinah Temple could open as soon as Saturday, and that has some people living in the area hoping for the best.
“Fingers crossed. What we want is no drama,” said Brian Israel, director emeritus of the River North Residents Association.
The group initially opposed the casino, but once the decision was final, the organization pivoted to trying to minimize any potentially negative impacts on the neighborhood.
Their top concerns: public safety, quality of life and traffic congestion in the area.
“It’s pretty hard to imagine that thousands of casino patrons moving through the area at all hours to gamble is going to make the situation better,” Israel said.
Israel says the RNRA has had productive conversations with both reps from Bally's and city officials.
“I think reasonable efforts are being made to address these concerns,” he said. “We won’t know for sure, of course, until the thing is in full operation.”
As for when the casino will officially open, according to an email to constituents, local Ald. Brendan Reilly said the Illinois Gaming Board could assign an opening date and hours without advance notice.
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