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Bally’s Chicago has reached a major construction milestone after placing the final structural beam on its permanent casino, completing the project’s primary steel framework.
The company celebrated the achievement with a topping-off ceremony at its $1.7 billion development site at 560 W. Grand Ave. along the Chicago River. Bally’s Chicago remains on track to open in spring 2027 and is expected to create approximately 3,000 permanent jobs once completed.
The Chicago casino development adds to Bally’s broader gaming portfolio, which includes Bally Bet Casino, its online casino and sports betting platform available in select US markets.
Final beam placement advances casino construction
The topping-off ceremony brought together Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Ald. Walter Burnett Jr., Bally’s Executive Chairman Soo Kim, union leaders, members of the Chicago Community Builders Collective and trades workers involved in the project.
The event followed the traditional construction practice of signing, lifting and placing the final beam. The milestone marked the completion of the casino’s primary structural framework as crews prepare to transition into interior construction and finishing work.
More than 1,000 tradespeople have worked on the project so far, highlighting Bally’s investment in Chicago’s construction workforce.
“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 in a Bally’s Chicago press release. He added that the company is “proud of the progress to date” and looking forward to the next phase of construction.
Chicago riverfront casino project moves into next phase
The permanent casino is part of a larger 30-acre redevelopment project at the former Chicago Tribune Freedom Center site. Bally’s plans to transform the property into a riverfront destination designed to reconnect River West and the Near West Side neighborhoods with the Chicago River.
The development is expected to include public outdoor spaces aimed at improving riverfront access and creating new community gathering areas.
New renderings showcase future Bally’s Chicago resort
Along with announcing the topping-off milestone, Bally’s released new renderings showcasing the planned interior design and guest experience for the future casino.
Design firm WATG is leading the project’s interior vision, including the gaming floor, entertainment spaces and social gathering areas. The renderings highlight a modern design approach incorporating views of the Chicago River and surrounding skyline.
Once completed, Bally’s Chicago is expected to feature:
- 3,400 slot machines and 173 table games
- 10 food and beverage venues operated in partnership with Levy Hospitality
- A 500-room hotel tower with a rooftop bar
- A 3,000-seat entertainment theater and event center
- Approximately 3,300 parking spaces
Construction continues toward 2027 opening
Following the completion of the steel framework, construction crews will focus on interior buildout and finishing work ahead of the planned spring 2027 opening.
Bally’s said the completed development will include public outdoor areas along the Chicago River designed to activate the waterfront for community use throughout the year. The company is also encouraging job seekers interested in future opportunities at Bally’s Chicago to register for hiring updates.
