The following applicants have submitted bids for consideration in developing a casino resort entertainment experience in Chicago: Bally’s Corporation (with two proposals for two different sites, according to the application, its casino operations would be self-managed), HR Chicago (one proposal for a single site; its casino operations would be managed by an affiliate, Hard Rock International), Rivers Chicago at McCormick (one proposal for a single site, its casino operations would be managed by Rush Street Gaming) and Rivers 78 Gaming (one proposal for a single site, its casino operations would be managed by Rush Street Gaming).
The holder of the owner’s licence has the chance to operate a temporary casino for up to 24 months (with the possibility of a 12-month extension) and, thereafter, a permanent casino located in the city.
Applicants selected through the Request for Proposal process will have to apply to the state for the owner’s licence and meet the state’s licencing requirements.
The Chicago casino represents an initiative three decades in the making and remains one of the most attractive casino resort developments opportunities in the country. With 9.5 million residents, Chicago was visited by 60 million domestic and 1.5 million international visitors in 2019.
Chicago Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot commented: “We are thrilled to have received five high-calibre proposals from Bally’s Corporation; HR Chicago, LLC; Rivers Chicago at McCormick, LLC; and Rivers 78 Gaming, LLC.
"The submission of bid responses represents a major step toward the thoughtful development of a casino resort that uplifts our businesses, employs and empowers our residents and encourages tourism. We look forward to the next phase of discussions to bring this world-class entertainment experience to our city.”
