Bally’s Chicago scrambles on new casino design

The project is still expected to open in 2026, a Bally's spokesperson confirmed.

Why it matters: Tax revenue and design were two big selling points for Chicago's first-ever casino, but the project brought in just one-fourth of its projected 2023 revenue — and now it must adjust its proposed blueprint.

Zoom in: The casino company plans to resize its hotel tower and relocate it from the north end to the south end of the Grand Avenue property.

• The new plan promises the same number of hotel rooms and still includes an entertainment venue and a river walk.
• But it also incorporates more green space, as was requested by the community.

Context: Bally's won the bidding war for the new casino in 2022, beating out projects in the South Loop near Chinatown and Soldier Field.

• The company bought the Tribune's Freedom Center for the purpose, but in the meantime set up a temporary casino in Medinah Temple in River North.

The intrigue: Tax revenue was a big part of then-Mayor Lori Lightfoot's 2019 pitch to the public for bringing a casino to Chicago.

• But the temporary casino has brought in just $3 million of the projected $12 million in 2023 revenue.

Yes, but: The setback can be partly blamed on the casino's delayed opening at Medinah Temple.

What's next: Bally's still plans to break ground on the new tower early this year, hoping to open its doors in River West by 2026.