Chicago Set to Get First Casino Resort by 2025

In good news for gamblers in the Chicago area, the city has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) in relation to the building of and running of a new integrated casino resort. The chosen application will have the city’s only casino license, and the aim is to have the resort operational by 2025.

The operator granted a license will be allowed to run a temporary casino for up to two years, and will also be given the job of building a full integrated resort that houses a casino, hotel, meeting space, bars, and restaurants, as well as entertainment venues. The license will also allow for the operation of slot machines at Chicago’s two airports.

The Mayor of Chicago, Lori. E Lightfoot, explained that he wants to see a world-class facility in the city.

I am not interested in building a casino for the sake of building a casino. My goal is a multi-faceted entertainment development that we can all be proud of. Chicago deserves a world-class facility of superb quality and architectural significance. One that will add to Chicago’s iconic architecture and exceptional urban environment. One worthy of this city’s storied history.

Lori. E LightfootMayor of Chicago

The city has not selected a site; rather operators have been encouraged to find a suitable location. However, final approval will be down to the city.

A number of ‘core goals’ have been set out for the project, and an applicant will be selected based upon how well they meet them. The goals include maximizing gaming tax revenue, creating well paid jobs, integrating into the wider community, being of “superb quality and architecturally significant design”, stimulating economic development, offering a ”first-class standard of service” and meeting the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design building standards.

There are a few more specific requirements, such as 50% of total work hours should be filled by city residents, Chicago-based businesses should be prioritized during the design and construction phases, and that minority-owned and women-owned businesses should make up 26% and 6% respectively of contractors.

Proposals must be submitted by August 23, 2021 and the final applicant will be chosen in early 2022.

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