Bally’s Corporation marked a key construction milestone on April 30 2026 when the permanent casino at 560 W. Grand Ave. in Chicago received its final structural beam, completing the building’s core framework for the $1.7 billion riverfront destination.
The topping‑off ceremony, attended by Mayor Brandon Johnson, Executive Chairman Soo Kim, and union leaders, signals that the project can now shift focus to interior fit‑out, gaming equipment installation, and regulatory approvals that will precede the anticipated spring 2027 opening.
The 30‑acre redevelopment of the former Chicago Tribune Freedom Center site is expected to create roughly 3,000 permanent jobs. A temporary casino has been operating at the Medinah Temple while construction continues, and the project’s financing includes a $940 million deal with Gaming and Leisure Properties.
Soo Kim praised the milestone, saying, “This is a significant milestone for Bally’s Chicago and reflects the incredible effort of the union trades and partners who have made this moment possible. We’re proud of the progress to date and excited to move into the next phase as we deliver a one‑of‑a‑kind destination for the people of Chicago.” Kim also noted that the hotel tower was moved after a water pipe was discovered, and that the project has faced design changes, weather‑related delays, and a pause caused by an unapproved waste‑hauling company linked to organized crime.
The topping‑off marks a critical step in Bally’s broader strategy to expand its casino footprint while managing the substantial capital outlay required for both the Bronx and Chicago ventures. Completing the core structure positions the company to meet regulatory deadlines and accelerate the project’s first‑quarter 2027 opening, reinforcing its commitment to revitalizing the Chicago Riverfront and delivering a high‑profile entertainment destination.
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