(Above) Rendering by HKS of the Bally’s project along the north branch of the Chicago River.

By Steven Dahlman

12-Feb-25 – The demolition of the Tribune Freedom Center is nearly complete, and despite setbacks, Bally’s has not reconsidered its estimate of its casino, hotel, and entertainment complex opening in 2026.

Last December, a sizable portion of the outer wall of the Freedom Center collapsed into the river, pausing demolition while it was cleaned up.

And a lawsuit has been filed over diversity requirements of equity Bally’s plans to offer to raise $250 million, in addition to the $940 million it already has.

Bally’s says it will start construction within a few months and finish next year. The $1.7 billion project will feature a 3,000-seat theater, six restaurants, parking for 2,500 cars, a 34-story hotel with 500 rooms, and a small public park.