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long-stalled casino project in a Chicago suburb has finally gained momentum after the Illinois Supreme Court ruled in favor of developer Full House Resorts. The court's decision ends a protracted legal battle over the casino's license, allowing construction to resume on the $400 million American Place Resort and Casino in Waukegan. The project had been put on hold since August 2023 due to a lawsuit filed by the Waukegan Potawatomi Casino, which claimed it was wrongfully excluded from the bidding process.

    The Supreme Court upheld the Illinois Gaming Board's decision to issue Full House its license in 2021 and confirmed that Waukegan followed proper procedure in recommending operators for the license. With the court's ruling, Full House executive Alex Stolyar announced plans to immediately resume work with architects and engineers, aiming to meet an August 2027 delivery deadline.

    The American Place Resort and Casino will be a major attraction in Waukegan, featuring a helipad, 100 table games, and 1,640 slot machines. The complex will also include a 1,500-seat entertainment center and a luxury hotel with private villas. A temporary casino has been operational since February 2023 and will continue to operate during construction.

    Waukegan Mayor Ann Taylor welcomed the court's decision, citing its potential to boost tourism and the local economy. Meanwhile, Rhode Island-based Bally's is developing a $1.7 billion casino complex at the former Chicago Tribune printing plant site, with plans for a hotel, theater, and dining venues.