The relocation marks a notable shift for the company, replacing the existing riverboat casino in Aurora with a new land-based casino, hotel and entertainment complex.
The $360m development will be situated adjacent to the Chicago Premium Outlets, known for attracting over eight million annual visitors.
Located near Interstate 88 in Aurora, the facility will include approximately 1,200 gaming positions, 220 guest rooms, a retail sportsbook, outdoor entertainment areas, a spa, bars and restaurants, an event centre covering around 12,000 square feet, meeting areas, and approximately 1,700 parking spaces.
The project is expected to generate 700 construction jobs and add 700 permanent positions, almost doubling the current workforce in Aurora.
Jay Snowden, CEO and President of Penn Entertainment, stated: “We acknowledge the opportunity to relocate our property to an ideal location in Aurora, significantly enhancing our offerings and positive economic impact on the community.”
The Aurora development involved the transfer of specific land parcels from the city, with up to $50m of the project funded by the city through a new bond issuance.
The transition to land was enabled by a 2019 law allowing riverboat casinos to shift to land-based operations. During the approximately 24-month construction period of the new facility, the existing Hollywood Casino Aurora, currently situated on the Fox River in downtown Aurora, will continue normal operations.
