Chicago seeks proposals for resort casino

The city of Chicago in the US state of Illinois yesterday issued a request for proposals for its first casino resort.

It will be the only casino licence in the US’ third largest metropolitan market and the selected partner will be able to propose its optimal site for the project, pending approval by the city. It is hoped that it will be open for business by 2025.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot said: “We look forward to collaborating with world-class operators to develop a premier entertainment destination that will catalyse growth in our dynamic economy, create sustainable, good-paying jobs for our workforce and bring new financial opportunities to our businesses.”

The city has 9.5 million inhabitants and welcomed 60 million domestic and 1.5 million international visitors in 2019.

The successful applicant will be able to operate a temporary casino for up to 24 months and will be able to operate slots in the Midway and O’Hare international airports.

The casino resort will include a hotel element with up to 500 rooms, meeting space, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues.