The construction of a permanent American Place Casino in Waukegan began on Wednesday. Officials at the groundbreaking event highlighted the creation of hundreds of jobs, new revenue sources, and the revitalization of Waukegan. The casino, expected to open in 2028, will span 200,000 square feet and include 1,300 slot machines, 80 gaming tables, and three restaurants and bars.
The current temporary facility is 100,000 square feet, featuring 905 slot machines and 43 gaming tables in a large white tent. This temporary casino has been in operation since February 2023 and is in its third year. The new permanent structure will occupy 42 acres adjacent to the tent.
American Place Vice President Jeff Babinski stated that the new casino would employ over 700 staff members. Combined, the temporary and permanent casinos represent an investment of nearly $500 million by owner Full House Resorts. The existing tent and infrastructure cost around $150 million, while the permanent facility will cost over $300 million. The first phase of the project focuses on constructing the entire new casino.
Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham described the casino as one of the city’s largest economic development initiatives, aimed at creating 400 construction jobs and transforming the city into an “economic engine” for the region. He noted that this development would address the lack of economic success in Northeast Lake County compared to other areas in the Chicago region.
Cunningham emphasized the importance of creating economic opportunities to ensure progress for Illinois and Waukegan. He praised state officials for supporting the project, especially after a lawsuit from the Forest County Potawatomi Community temporarily halted development.
The temporary casino’s operation was initially set to last until August 2027. However, due to the lawsuit, an extension was granted, allowing continued operation during the construction of the permanent facility. Mayor Cunningham, alongside other officials such as North Chicago Mayor Leon Rockingham and Vice President Babinski, marked the event with a groundbreaking ceremony.
This development has been over three decades in the making, starting in 1992 and continuing through several mayoral administrations. Cunningham reiterated the city’s motto, “City of Progress,” as Waukegan embarks on a mission to rebuild.
While acknowledging controversies surrounding new casinos, such as gambling addiction, Cunningham noted the existing community support structures to address these issues. Senate Bill 2749, which expanded the state’s Substance Use Disorder Act to include gambling disorder services, was highlighted as an effort from state legislators and the governor to prevent related issues.
Full House Resorts owns several casinos and hotels across Mississippi, Colorado, Indiana, and Nevada.