A groundbreaking ceremony recently took place at Wind Creek Chicago Southland, one of the six south suburban casinos authorized in Illinois’ 2019 gaming expansion bill. The casino will open in 2023 on the border of Homewood and East Hazel Crest.
Stephanie Bryan, tribal chairwoman and chief executive officer of the Poarch Creek Indians, said, “Wind Creek doesn’t just build casinos, we truly build communities. We’re so very thankful for the support of community leaders, local organizations and residents of the south suburbs who helped get us to this point, and we look forward to working with you to ensure that the benefits associated with this project are experienced by the entire region.”
The 70,000 square-foot venue will feature 1,350 slot machines, 56 table games, entertainment, dining and a 252-room luxury hotel with expansive views of downtown Chicago. It’s expected to create 600 construction jobs and 800 permanent positions.
A portion of the casino revenue will go toward the state of Illinois, south suburban communities and the Southland Public Benefit Fund, which provides health care services and college scholarships.
Jay Dorris, president and chief executive officer at Wind Creek Hospitality, said, “People across the Southland have been waiting for this casino and the community investment that comes along with it, and we’re happy to be taking concrete steps to see this dream realized.”
