Published on: January 10, 2025, 10:23 AM.
Last updated on: January 10, 2025, 10:23 AM.
Bally’s Corporation, the operator leading the $1.7 billion development project in Chicago’s River West area, will not face penalties for a demolition incident that occurred recently and resulted in debris entering the Chicago River.
Bally’s, based in Rhode Island, acquired the Freedom Center in November 2022 for $200 million with plans for an integrated resort casino in Chicago. Demolition of the former Chicago-Tribune and Chicago Sun-Times printing facility started in August 2024 to make room for a new entertainment and hospitality destination featuring a 500-room hotel, a casino with 3,400 slot machines and 173 live dealer tables, VIP rooms, and a sportsbook.
During the incident, perlite, a non-toxic insulation material, was among the debris that fell into the river, causing concern over environmental safety.
Following an investigation by various agencies, including the Illinois EPA and Chicago Department of Buildings, it was determined that no laws were violated in the accident, and thus, no fines were issued. However, a remedial plan was mandated to address the situation.
No Fine, This Time
The demolition, which was paused after the incident, has now resumed after approval from city officials who were satisfied with the corrective actions taken by the contractor. The matter has been considered closed.
The Chicago Community Builders Collective, a joint venture of seven minority-led construction firms, is leading the demolition project and expects to complete the teardown of the Freedom Center by the end of the month.
Remedial measures undertaken by the Chicago Community Builders Collective include reinforcing the mesh netting and placing a barge in the river to catch any debris that may bypass the barrier.
Bally’s Hiring Fair
While the permanent Bally’s Chicago casino is set to open in late 2026, a temporary casino at the Medinah Temple has been operational since September 2023. As operations expand, Bally’s is actively recruiting staff for its temporary facility with plans for many to transition to the permanent resort in the future.
Monica Scott, Vice President of Community Engagement at Bally’s Chicago, mentioned, “As we continue to grow, we’re looking to fill our coffers with good, talented staff, energetic employees, and those who really want a growth path as we continue to expand and prepare for our move to the permanent facility in late 2026.”
Bally’s is offering free, six-week training courses for individuals interested in becoming table games dealers, with the opportunity to increase pay by learning additional games. For more information on dealer school and available positions, click here.
The temporary Bally’s Chicago facility generated $124.6 million in gross gaming revenue within its first year of operation.