Illinois Rockford Receives Casino Proposals

The Illinois government has recently approved a Bill on gambling expansion and local cities are ready to submit proposals. The city of Rockford has just started accepting casino proposals for the future operator of the complex.

According to Mayor, Tom McNamara, proposals include specifications about casino locations and operation. He said:

"First they need to have a project labor agreement. Second, we want to bring additional benefits to our community, such as a hotel. Third, we want to discuss revenue sharing opportunities the casino could provide to the city, as well as what they would do to support our local social services and nonprofits."

Possible Location

Proposals should refer to the site within Rockford or a nearby area. There are two possible sites for the upcoming complex. One of the locations is the Clock Tower Hotel and Resort close to Interstate 90. Some reports suggest that Hard Rock International wants to develop the venue. According to state Sen. Dave Syverson, the location is attractive for outside visitors:

"If it was downtown, for example, McHenry County would end up going to Elgin instead of to Rockford, but this makes Rockford closer, so we're able to draw from the rooftops of McHenry County and Wisconsin".

Another proposed location takes place in the south of the city next to Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center. Gorman and Company form Wisconsin expressed the interest in developing a casino complex. This location is considered advantageous for local authorities. State senator, Stadelman observed:

"I think it's true that a casino downtown by itself doesn't necessarily generate economic development on its own, but I think as part of a larger entertainment complex, I think it's an easy idea to sell, that this could be a boost downtown".

Both proposals are more than interesting options but the selection process is soon to happen. Senator Stadelman said:

"I think both proposals are extremely attractive, but I want to see what else may be put forth as far as an offer the city will consider before I offer any other thoughts or judgments on it“.

He concluded:

"We just passed the state legislation in May. The deadline for proposals is this month, and by October the state Board will make a decision. So it's a very expedited process, it's very quick, but it's very exciting as well."

Source:

“Illinois: City of Rockford is accepting casino proposals“, yogonet.com, August 21, 2019.