Bally’s Chicago reached a major step toward opening its permanent casino this week after construction crews lifted the final structural steel beam into place, bringing the massive riverfront development to its full height. The topping-off ceremony at 560 W. Grand Ave. signaled that the building’s structural framework is now complete as work shifts toward interior construction and finishing ahead of a planned spring 2027 debut.
City officials, labor leaders, project partners and hundreds of construction workers gathered at the former Chicago Tribune Freedom Center site to celebrate the milestone. The $1.7 billion project is expected to create about 3,000 permanent jobs and become Chicago’s first permanent casino destination.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Alderman Walter Burnett Jr., Bally’s Executive Chairman Soo Kim, union leaders, members of the Chicago Community Builders Collective and trades workers attended the event. More than 1,000 tradespeople have worked on the project.
“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,” said Soo Kim in a statement. “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.”
Bally’s Chicago casino project reaches full height after years of setbacks
The signed beam, topped with an American flag, was lifted into place in keeping with a longstanding construction tradition. The completed structural work includes the main casino building and a 34-story hotel tower overlooking the Chicago River.
The permanent resort is rising on the 30-acre River West property and is designed to reconnect nearby neighborhoods with expanded public river access and new outdoor gathering spaces. Bally’s also released updated renderings showing planned gaming areas, entertainment spaces and social venues designed by WATG.
When complete, the development will feature 3,400 slot machines, 173 table games, 10 food and beverage venues operated with Levy Hospitality, a 500-room hotel, a 3,000-seat entertainment theater and event center, 3,300 parking spaces and public riverfront amenities. Bally’s has said the complex will offer about 4,000 gaming positions overall, making it the largest casino in Illinois.
The project has faced several delays since Bally’s was selected in 2022. Construction was temporarily halted after debris entered the river, regulators later stopped work over an unauthorized waste hauler, and engineers required foundation changes that moved the hotel tower. Despite those setbacks, Kim told attendees, “We had some fits and starts. We’re going to be done early next year. We’re excited to finish it all up.”
Illinois regulators have also approved an extension allowing Bally’s temporary Medinah Temple casino to continue operating through September 9, 2027, while construction continues. City leaders expect the permanent resort to generate more than $100 million in annual revenue to support police and fire pensions and other municipal priorities once it opens.
Featured image: Heron Agency / Bally’s Corporation
