The City of Chicago has received five responses to its request for proposal (RFP) for its first integrated casino-resort.
The responses (due by Oct. 29) include:
- Bally’s Corporation submitted two proposals for two different sites; its casino operations would be self-managed;
- HR Chicago, LLC submitted a proposal for a single site; its casino operations would be managed by an affiliate, Hard Rock International;
- Rivers Chicago at McCormick, LLC submitted a proposal for a single site; its casino operations would be managed by Rush Street Gaming, LLC; and
- Rivers 78 Gaming, LLC submitted a proposal for a single site; its casino operations would be managed by Rush Street Gaming, LLC
The selected proposal will have the exclusive opportunity to own and operate a casino-resort in the country’s third-largest metropolitan market.
“We are thrilled to have received five high-caliber proposals ….,” Chicago Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot said in a statement. “The submission of bid responses represents a major step toward the thoughtful development of a casino-resort that uplifts our businesses, employs and empowers our residents and encourages tourism. We look forward to the next phase of discussions to bring this world-class entertainment experience to our city.”
The holder of the Chicago owner’s license has the opportunity to operate a temporary casino for up to 24 months (subject to a 12-month extension) and, thereafter, a permanent casino located in the city. Applicants selected through the RFP process then must apply to the state for the owner’s license and meet the state’s licensing requirements.
Now that RFP responses have been received, a review committee made up of a cross-section of City departments will determine the recommended winning bidder. This recommendation will be made by the review committee to Mayor Lightfoot who will ultimately make the determination with City Council approval.
More information on the proposal summaries will be shared in the following weeks.
