The Illinois Gaming Board has approved a proposal from Full House Resorts to develop and open a new land-based casino property in Waukegan.
Full House’s American Place project was one of an original five pitches submitted in response to a request for proposals launched in 2019 to build a casino and entertainment destination in Waukegan, which is located in the northern part of the state, halfway between Chicago and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The city of Waukegan endorsed proposals from Full House, North Point Casino and Churchill Downs Incorporated and Rush Street Gaming’s Midwest Gaming venture, but the Full House project was selected by the state’s regulator.
Once complete, American Place will feature a casino and sportsbook, as well as a boutique hotel comprised of 20 luxury villas, a 1,500-seat live entertainment venue, a gourmet restaurant, additional eateries, bars and other amenities.
A second phase of American Place is expected to include a four-star hotel with 150 rooms.
Full House will immediately begin work on the construction of a temporary casino in Waukegan, with the aim of opening in mid-2022.
Subject to final licensing approvals, the permanent facility is planned to open in 2024.
“Through our planned temporary facility – aptly named The Temporary by American Place – we will be able to quickly create jobs and generate tax revenues while the permanent American Place facility is being built,” Full House president and chief executive Daniel Lee said.
“Our permanent American Place facility is designed to be a world-class destination for nearby Chicagoland residents and the entire region, and will include luxurious amenities such as an all-villa hotel with full butler service.
“We are excited to join the Waukegan community and welcome the opportunity to bring our American Place vision to life, with completion of our full experience expected in 2024.”
Full House in March this year launched a stock offering to financially support the project, with the aim of raising $40m.