River North Locals Attempt To Work With Bally’s On The Illinois Casino Proposal

A few months ago, Mayor Lori Lightfoot and the Chicago casino committee had narrowed down their casino options to three for the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB).

Just to remind you, the three options were:

• Rivers 78 near Chinatown
• One Central Hard Rock in the South Loop
• Bally’s in River North

Some residents living near each of the three potential casino sites were not pleased with the concept of a casino in their neighborhood.

The reason they cited:

1. diminished property value
2. increased traffic and
3. Concerns include increased crime.

In May, Bally’s was declared the winning contender by the Chicago casino committee, potentially becoming the newest Illinois casino. However, this only intensified the unease felt by River North residents.

River North residents taking a new approach with Bally’s casino

Currently, residents have ceased resisting the probable arrival of Bally’s to the region. However, they are advocating for modifications to the construction plans to prevent detrimental effects on the community.

The group requested Bally’s to substitute the outdoor music venue with a public park. This modification could protect the neighborhood from the noise of loud music along the riverfront.

Brian Israel, who is the president of the River North Residents Association (RNRA), stated, “Many people clearly enjoy attending concerts. I also enjoy concerts, but not when they are directly across the street from my home.”

Officials from Bally’s responded to the RNRA, stating:

Initially, Bally’s believed that the outdoor performance venue would be a positive addition to the neighborhood. Now, however, they acknowledge the serious concerns of local residents regarding noise, light, and traffic disruption near their residences. They will take these concerns into account, awaiting feedback from other groups.

However, the group’s requests do not end there. The RNRA has forwarded a list of 42 concerns to Bally’s.

Key proposal changes to the Bally’s Illinois casino from the RNRA:

• Remove the proposed bridge to Ward Park
• Make sure that all Bally’s vehicles, including maintenance, shuttles, security, hospitality, etc., are completely eco-friendly and utilize renewable fuels.
• Consider the exit ramps that link the casino to the Ohio-Ontario feeder.
• Carry out security patrols within a four-block radius surrounding the permanent and temporary casino in Chicago.
• Allocate 2% of annual revenue towards treatment programs for problem gambling.

The RNRA requested various street modifications and exit ramps. However, Bally’s argued that the costs would be exorbitant and the chances of getting approval from the Illinois DOT were slim.

Bally’s, however, did agree to cooperate with the Chicago Police Department. They aim to increase patrols in and around both the temporary and permanent casinos.

Before Bally’s can break ground on the project, they still require approval from IGB. Casino officials plan to meet with local groups before submitting the final proposal.