Bally's Corporation's Chicago Casino Resort has reached a significant construction milestone, with a "topping out" ceremony held this week to mark the completion of the building's structural framework.
The event drew more than 1,000 skilled tradespeople alongside prominent civic and industry figures, including Bally's Chairman Soo Kim and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson.
The project has had a lengthy and at times contentious path to this point. First debated and ultimately approved around five years ago, it faced sustained scrutiny over its proximity to neighbouring communities, projected traffic impacts and what critics described as optimistic revenue forecasts.
Supporters, however, pointed to the development's potential to generate several hundred million dollars annually in tax revenue – funds earmarked in part to support first responder pension obligations.
Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot and former Alderman Walter Burnett, both central to securing the project's approval, were acknowledged during the ceremony.
The planned resort is an ambitious undertaking. When complete, it is expected to feature 3,500 gaming positions, a 500-room hotel, a 3,000-seat theater, a spa, rooftop pool and public amenities including a riverwalk and a two-acre park.
Chicago-based hospitality group Levy has been confirmed as the exclusive food and beverage partner, with plans for a culinary programme spotlighting local chefs and restaurant concepts.
The casino's 2027 opening target comes as Bally's continues to expand its broader portfolio. The company recently reported Q4 2025 revenue of $746.2m – a 28.6% year-on-year increase – driven by growth across its Casinos & Resorts, North America Interactive and Bally's Intralot segments.
The Bally’s Chicago Casino Resort is expected to include a hotel, gaming floor, entertainment venues and public amenities as part of a large-scale urban development project
