Chicago Construction News staff writer
Bally’s Corporation reached a major construction milestone April 30 on its permanent Chicago casino, celebrating the placement of the final structural beam at the development site at 560 W. Grand Ave.
The topping-off ceremony brought together Brandon Johnson, Ald. Walter Burnett Jr., Bally’s executive chairman Soo Kim, union leaders and members of the Chicago Community Builders Collective, along with trades workers involved in the project.
Once complete, the $1.7 billion development is expected to generate about 3,000 permanent jobs and is slated to open in spring 2027.
More than 1,000 tradespeople have worked on the project to date, reflecting the scale of construction and Bally’s reliance on union labour for one of the largest active developments in the city.
The ceremony concluded with the traditional signing and hoisting of the final beam, marking a key structural milestone for the riverfront project. The moment offered a clear view of the future casino’s footprint along the Chicago River.
“This is a significant milestone for Bally’s Chicago and reflects the incredible effort of the union trades and partners who have made this moment possible,” Kim said. “We’re proud of the progress to date and excited to move into the next phase as we deliver a one-of-a-kind destination for the people of Chicago.”
The casino is part of a broader 30-acre redevelopment of the former Chicago Tribune Freedom Center site, which is being transformed into a mixed-use riverfront destination aimed at reconnecting River West and the Near West Side to the Chicago River while improving public access.
Bally’s also released new renderings highlighting interior design elements and guest experience features. The company has engaged WATG to lead the casino’s interior design, including gaming, entertainment and social spaces.
When finished, Bally’s Chicago is expected to include 3,400 slot machines, 173 table games, 10 food and beverage venues in partnership with Levy, a 500-room hotel tower with a rooftop bar, a 3,000-seat entertainment theatre and event centre, approximately 3,300 parking spaces, and public outdoor and riverfront areas.
