Developer Restarts Casino Construction in Chicago Suburb

A roll of the dice has finally come up lucky for a stalled casino project in a far north suburb of Chicago.

Construction on the American Place Resort and Casino in Waukegan is back on track following a ruling by the Illinois Supreme Court, the Chicago Tribune reported. The court’s decision brings an end to a protracted legal battle over the casino’s license, allowing developer Full House Resorts to proceed with its $400 million complex.

Construction on the permanent casino was put on hold in August 2023 after the Waukegan Potawatomi Casino sued, claiming it was wrongfully excluded from the bidding process. The Potawatomi tribe alleged that the selection process was a “sham,” claiming former Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham directed city council members on which bids to approve.

In its ruling, the Supreme Court affirmed that the Illinois Gaming Board acted appropriately in issuing Full House its license in 2021, and that Waukegan followed proper procedure in recommending operators for the license. The court also upheld Waukegan’s authority to recommend operators for consideration.

Following the court’s decision, Full House executive Alex Stolyar confirmed the company would immediately resume work with the architects and engineers, with efforts focused on meeting an August 2027 delivery deadline.

The casino is set to be a major attraction in Waukegan. The complex will feature a helipad, 100 table games and 1,640 slot machines. It will also include a 1,500-seat entertainment center and a luxury hotel offering 20 private villas ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 square feet.

The temporary casino, which has been operational since February 2023, will continue to operate during construction.

Waukegan Mayor Ann Taylor welcomed the court’s decision, noting the project’s ability to attract tourism and boost the local economy.

“I’m so excited about this opportunity, and what it does for us,” she said. “This is good not only for the income, but it will also bring a lot of tourists. It’s what we’ve really been waiting for.”

Meanwhile, Rhode Island-based gambling firm Bally’s is developing a $1.7 billion casino complex at the former Chicago Tribune printing plant site, with plans for a hotel, theater and dining venues. Bally’s is operating a temporary casino at the Albert Friedman-owned Medinah Temple.

— Andrew Terrell