Chicago’s gaming scene is on the cusp of expansion with Wind Creek Chicago Southland casino ready to open its doors in the suburb of East Hazel Crest. Set to become one of Illinois’ leading attractions for gamblers, the casino flaunts a $529 million price tag with a 1,400-slot gaming floor, upscale dining, and an array of entertainment options.
The new venue, awaiting state regulatory approval to commence operations as early as this week, presents a potential boon for local tax revenue generation. That was made evident when Homewood Mayor Richard Hofeld expressed his satisfaction, saying “It’s exactly what we envisioned and beyond that,” in a statement obtained by
ABC7 Chicago
. Yet, one might wonder whether the surge in gaming establishments, this being the sixth and final new casino approved under the state’s 2019 expansion, may lead to a crowded market.
Despite concerns over potential market saturation, the general manager of Wind Creek Chicago Southland, Roger Kuehn, remains optimistic. In an interview with the
Chicago Sun-Times
, Kuehn stated they are aiming to be the second-ranking casino in Illinois behind Rivers Casino in Des Plaines. “We’ve heard for years about the Illinois cars going across the border to gamble. This sits right there,” conveyed state Rep. Bob Rita to the Chicago Sun-Times, highlighting the strategic location near Indiana, known for drawing Chicago-area gamblers.
Amid adjusting expectations for the city’s share of casino revenue, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration reduced forecasts for Bally’s casino in the latest budget proposal. The revised anticipation accounts for $16.5 million earmarked for the city’s police and firefighter pension funds next year, a sharp decline from the earlier $35 million estimate. However, Chris Jewett, Bally’s senior vice president for corporate development, emphasized the company’s contributions to Chicago, “Bally’s has delivered more than $62 million in revenue to Chicago through a $40 million upfront fee, $8 million in annual fees and more than $14 million in local taxes,” Jewett elucidated in a statement as reported by the
Chicago Sun-Times
.
Wind Creek isn’t merely another casino throwing its hat in the ring; it’s being touted as an “ultimate entertainment experience” offering much more than gaming. The establishment will also host a buffet, entertainment area, and jobs for more than 1,000 locals in the Southland region, which expects to see around $2 million in revenue annually from the project. Cathye Amos, executive director of marketing, relayed to
ABC7 Chicago
, “It’s someplace you want to come for the ultimate entertainment experience.”
The casino’s impact extends to the job market, with about 900 full-time employees already hired and plans for an additional 300 jobs. This significant employment boost is a welcomed development for an area described by state Rep. Will Davis in an interview with
ABC7 Chicago
as having suffered from disinvestment. A future hotel amenity, including a spa, steakhouse, and event center, shores up the venue’s appeal. Residents and officials are hopeful that Wind Creek will not only revitalize the local economy but also provide a competitive alternative to out-of-state options. The planned 16-floor hotel tower is set to amplify the casino’s profile when it opens in early 2025.
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