Bally’s has provided additional details about its plan to convert Medinah Temple into a temporary casino in Chicago.
The company is excited to soon start construction on its permanent casino in River North. However, the casino will not be operational until at least 2025. In the meantime, gamblers can continue to enjoy the Medinah Temple.
Temporary Chicago casino
The temporary Chicago casino is set to open for bets in June 2025, pending successful planning. It has the capacity to operate for up to three years.
Residents are concerned about the renovations needed at the Medinah Temple to make space for a casino, as the historic building is a cherished landmark in Chicago.
Bally’s claims that the renovations will maintain the original 1912 architecture, which includes the copper domes, stained glass windows, and third-floor ceiling.
Luis Collado of STL Architects, a Chicago-based firm working with Bally’s, explains that the construction project will include extra measures to protect the historic building.
We are enjoying the beauty of the window and the light it lets in, while also creating a barrier to protect it from physical contact. Our goal is to both protect the window and admire its aesthetic qualities.
If you are unsure of the location, you can find Medinah Temple at 600 N. Wabash Ave.
Approval from the Chicago Landmark Commission Review Committee is required before construction can begin on the temporary casino. The review process is scheduled to begin on August 4th.
Bally’s casino project
The construction at Medinah Temple marks the beginning of the $1.7 billion casino project in Chicago.
Approval has been granted by the city for Bally’s River North casino, but a license from the Illinois Gaming Board is still needed.
In other words, both the temporary and permanent Chicago casinos are still waiting for final approval from authorities.
In June, Bally’s submitted documentation for the main building, which could help speed up the company’s approval process.
After overcoming the last obstacles, Bally’s can finally begin the two projects in earnest.
Building a casino in downtown Chicago is no easy feat. Many doubt the feasibility of the project due to its complexity.
The project is scheduled to move forward soon, despite any obstacles. If all goes according to plan, a temporary casino will be up and running in Chicago next year, with the main casino set to open in 2025.
