Chicago alders call on Bally's to fully resume casino project amid dispute over video gambling

The company says the growing push for hundreds of new terminals could drain revenue from the casino.

ByABC7 Chicago Digital Team WLS logo
Thursday, August 13, 2026 3:32AM
Alders call on Bally's to resume project amid video gambling dispute
Chicago City Council members sent a letter calling on Bally's to fully resume its casino project amid a dispute over video gambling terminals.

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago City Council members are calling on Bally's to get back to work on building a new casino in the city.

A group of 28 alderpersons signed a letter Wednesday saying the company cannot keep building the casino portion while delaying other promised parts of the project, including the hotel and restaurants.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Bally's says the pause is tied to the council's decision to allow video gambling terminals across the city, which could affect Bally's profits.

Bally's told ABC7 Wednesday night that they are open to meeting with City Council.

The casino itself remains on track to open early next year.

Copyright © 2026 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.