The long-awaited casino project in Waukegan has entered its next phase, with Full House Resorts officially commencing construction on the permanent American Place Casino. This ambitious development is projected to exceed $300 million, anticipate a 2028 opening, and generate numerous construction and long-term employment opportunities.
Spanning 200,000 square feet on 42 acres located east of the current temporary casino, the new site will feature 1,300 slot machines, 80 gaming tables, and three complete dining options. According to Jeff Babinski, Vice President of American Place, the completed casino is set to employ over 700 people.
When factoring in the existing temporary casino on-site, the total investment for this project nears $500 million. Babinski noted that the temporary casino and its supporting infrastructure amounted to around $150 million, with the permanent structure alone projected to cost in excess of $300 million.
Initially opening in February 2023, the temporary American Place Casino is currently in its third year of service. Housed within a sizable white tent, the facility covers 100,000 square feet and includes 905 slot machines along with 43 gaming tables.
Originally slated to close in August 2027, the temporary site received an extension to continue operations during the construction of the permanent casino, following a legal challenge from the Forest County Potawatomi Community that affected the development schedule.
Waukegan’s Mayor, Sam Cunningham, described the casino as one of the largest economic revitalization efforts in the city’s history. At the groundbreaking event, he commented that the initiative would create 400 construction jobs and provide new revenue streams for the city.
Design mockup of the upcoming project
“We recognize that to keep making strides not just for Illinois but for our community, we must cultivate economic opportunities,” remarked the mayor.
Cunningham highlighted that efforts to establish a casino in Waukegan have been ongoing since 1992, spanning multiple mayoral administrations. He pointed out that northeast Lake County has lagged in economic progress compared to other areas in the Chicago region, and emphasized that the casino could significantly boost Waukegan’s redevelopment and attract additional investments.
“The measures put in place by our state legislators, alongside our governor, have been commendable,” he stated. “There is a procedure established to address potential issues.”
Phase 1 of this development will focus on constructing the complete permanent casino. Cunningham also noted concerns regarding gambling addiction, acknowledging that casinos can pose community challenges. He stated that officials cannot overlook the potential impact on some individuals, but pointed to the availability of existing support systems and recent legislative initiatives.
Senate Bill 2749, which passed through both legislative chambers in May, expands Illinois’ Substance Use Disorder Act to include resources for those suffering from gambling-related issues.