In a strategic move with implications for Chicago's gaming landscape, casino operator Bally's Corporation is reimagining the design of its upcoming casino resort complex in Chicago. Bally’s decision comes months ahead of the anticipated groundbreaking for the Chicago casino project, which is slated for a grand opening in the year of 2026. The motive behind this architectural revision is the detection that the foundation of a planned 35-storey hotel tower could potentially interfere with municipal water pipelines on the River West site, and it prompted the operator to seek an alternative location.

The operator’s executives are in touch with city officials to navigate this unexpected challenge. The current site of the proposed property, at Chicago Avenue and Halsted Street, presents an extraordinary hurdle related to unforeseen infrastructure issues.

The original design, which received approval from the Chicago City Council more than a year ago, envisioned a 100-room hotel at the riverbank and a subsequent 400-room tower to be developed within a period of five years.

However, during the initial stages of construction, concerns emerged about likely damage to water piping near the river. The city agreed with Bally's findings, which led to a revised plan submitted to the Department of Buildings earlier this month for review by city officials.

Under the revised design, the hotel development is relocated to a 74-foot-tall building at the south end of the thirty-acre site. Meanwhile, the 505,000-square-foot tower will find a new home somewhere else on the premises. The operator has assured stakeholders that construction of the permanent casino complex is under progress, with plans to commence works this summer, marking an extension of their casino operations in the city.

A spokesperson for Bally’s Corp. said, “We are one step closer to the start of construction of the permanent casino by working closely with all stakeholders including the city. We look forward to getting shovels in the ground in 2024.”

Despite the hurdles and challenges, Bally's aims to adhere to its construction schedule and open the permanent casino by 9th of September in 2026.

The relocation of the planned hotel tower and other necessary adjustments underscore the dynamic nature of such large-scale projects. Bally’s commitment to collaborate with city officials and adherence to construction timelines reflects its determination to overcome challenges and deliver a landmark entertainment destination to the city of Chicago, with the evolving narrative promising a transformative addition to the iconic skyline.