Bally’s Chicago Casino Reaches Topping Out Milestone
On April 30, leaders from across Chicago gathered to celebrate the topping out of Bally’s Chicago Hotel and Casino development, marking a major milestone for the project.
Set against a backdrop of yellow safety vests and hard hats, the 30-acre site came alive with energy as community leaders, elected officials, and tradespeople looked skyward. A bright red structural beam—covered with signatures by workers and city, union, business and community stakeholders—was lifted into place as “We Built This City” played, marking an important moment in the construction of Chicago’s first and only permanent casino.
Workers sign the celebrated final structural beam.
A Union-Built Future
Workforce development partners HIRE360, Chicago Women in Trades, Revolution Workshop, Communities Empowered Through Construction, and the Chicago Urban League were recognized for their role in expanding access to construction careers.
“Chicago is finally bringing its first casino to life,” said Bob Reiter, President of the Chicago Federation of Labor. “The great success of this casino is the thousands of union construction workers who are moving this project forward.”
Reiter also noted that “this project reflects the full diversity of Chicago” and draws workers from all 77 neighborhoods.
Calling the development a “transformational effort,” Reiter emphasized that “it’s the working-class people that make this a world-class city.”
CCBC JV partners enjoyed the Topping Out celebration. From left, Rosie Makhani, SQN Associates; Kelly Powers Baria, Powers & Sons Construction; Karrie Kratz, Gilbane Building, and James Fifer, Milhouse Construction. Partners not pictured include Jimmy Akintonde, UJAMAA Construction; Ernest Brown, Brown & Momen; Frederick d’Escoto, d’Escoto Inc.; and Larry Huggins, Riteway-Huggins Construction.
Mayor Brandon Johnson joined Bally’s Chairman Soo Kim at the celebration. In his remarks, Kim said, “We’re proud of the progress to date and excited tomove into the next phase as we deliver a one-of-a-kind destination for the people of Chicago.”
Chicago Women in Trades
A Citywide Investment
In his remarks, Mayor Brandon Johnson underscored the broader economic and social impact of the project, describing it as a catalyst for opportunity across Chicago.
“I’m grateful to see the Bally’s project unlock opportunities for these communities and help move our city forward,” Johnson said.
Once operational, the casino and surrounding development are expected to generate more than $100 million in annual revenue. According to Mayor Johnson, those funds will support critical city needs, while advancing efforts to build “a more equitable, affordable, and safe Chicago where every community has the opportunity to thrive.”
Johnson also took a moment to recognize the role of women in the trades, highlighting Chicago Women in Trades and its leadership. “Let’s give it up for our women in trades,” he said, acknowledging the growing diversity of the workforce shaping the project.
Looking Ahead
As the final beam was secured in place, the moment served as both a celebration and a reminder: this project is not just about building a casino—it’s about building pathways, partnerships, and long-term opportunities for Chicagoans.
With progress advancing every day and an anticipated opening in early 2027, Bally’s Chicago is steadily moving from vision to reality—one beam at a time.
Workers stand by to guide the final beam into place.