Bally’s Chicago Approved for Round-The-Clock Gambling

Article by : Erik Gibbs Dec 26, 2023

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Starting on December 27, Bally’s Chicago is set to transform into a round-the-clock gambling destination, as it recently received approval from the Illinois Gaming Board to extend its operating hours to 24/7.

Since its temporary casino debut on September 9, Bally’s Chicago has adhered to a 20-hour daily schedule. This recent green light marks a significant shift for the casino operation.

Mark Wong, the Vice President and General Manager of Bally’s Chicago, expressed the significance of this development in a Wednesday news release, stating that opening the doors 24/7 represents a crucial stride in increasing traffic.

Wong sees this move as strategic and one that aligns Bally’s Chicago with the operational hours of other local casino properties, underscoring the casino’s commitment to reaching its set goals.

The expansion to continuous operation is viewed as a progressive step forward for Bally’s Chicago.

Chosen by the city last year, Rhode Island-based Bally’s secured the opportunity to construct a new casino. The cost was set at $1.74 billion for the casino, and the 30-acre Freedom Center was chosen as the site. The opening date was also set for 2026.

As the operation continued from its temporary location within Medinah Temple, the casino administration applied and gained a 12-month extension. This motion was approved by the Gaming Board in October, allowing the administration to continue at its temporary site for years.

In 2019, the state implemented a comprehensive expansion bill for gaming operations, creating six new licenses for casinos. One of these licenses was granted to Bally’s Chicago Casino.

This legislation not only facilitated the establishment of land-based facilities. Yet, the legislation paved the path for 24/7 operations to be proposed and established.

Many established casinos in Illinois leverage this flexibility, ensuring continuous operation. Bally’s Chicago views the transition to round-the-clock operations as a strategic move to enhance revenues and establish a stronger position in a gaming industry that keeps getting more competitive.

In November, the casino situated at Medinah Temple, operated by Bally’s Chicago, maintained its revenue at $7.6 million, consistent with October figures.

The Gaming Board’s data also revealed an increase in visitors, with over 86,000 individuals stepping through the doors, marking an uptick of more than 3,000 from the previous month.

Among Illinois’ 15 casinos, Bally’s Chicago secured the fourth spot in terms of revenue and the second position in admissions for November, according to Gaming Board statistics.

Rivers Casino Des Plaines led the rankings with $43.5 million in generated revenue and 249,000 admissions.