In Chicago, a recent virtual community meeting addressed citizens’ concerns over Bally’s temporary takeover of the historic Medinah Temple while its permanent casino resort is built in River West.
Mayor Lori Lightfoot’s Chief Engagement Officer Martina Hone assured participants that “the Las Vegas Strip is not going to be on your doorstep.” She said, “Today what we wanted to do was to really allow you to see the architects’ vision for the beautiful, iconic Medinah Temple in its latest incarnation as the temporary casino site.”
Built in 1912, Medinah Temple was designated a Chicago landmark in 2001. The venue previously was an amphitheater and auditorium, then Bloomingdale’s occupied the space until September 2020. Robert Jillson and Luis Collado from STL Architects, a firm working with Bally’s, said the building’s copper domes, third-floor ceiling and stained-glass windows will remain untouched. Minor adjustments will include removing some walls installed during a 2003 renovation.
Collado said most of the exterior will resemble the building’s former use as a Bloomingdale’s department store, including vertical banner signs.
Some participants also raised concerns about traffic, parking, public safety, utility use and more. Those issues were noted by city officials but Hone said another meeting will be scheduled to discuss topics outside the scope of the Medinah Temple.
