When Full House Resorts’ American Place in Waukegan, Illinois opens in two years, it will create 1,800 new jobs in the vicinity. That’s reason enough to support the project, according to Kevin Considine, president and chief executive officer at Lake County Partners.
“That’s a lot of jobs. It’s a big number,” Considine said. “It’s a breadth of job opportunities. They’ll range from workforce jobs to management at different levels. Other businesses are going to benefit from this.”
Full House Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer Alex Stolyar added, “The casino brings the potential for not only jobs but growth but also for the people who get them. It will be a lot more than a place for gambling. It will help other businesses grow.”
Lake County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Shaunese Teamer said Full House executives already are reaching out to local business leaders. “All steps that are being taken by Full House Resorts to build incrementally look positive. With their commitment to meet with city officials, our local businesses and vendors can also look forward to growth as it relates to potential contract opportunities and other long-term benefits associated with providing casino resources.”
The only casino between Rosemont, Illinois and Milwaukee, American Place will be built on 28 acres of city-owned land that currently produces no property taxes. Waukegan Mayor Ann Taylor said the city soon will send out requests for proposals to ask developers their ideas for the city-owned block in downtown Waukegan bounded by Genesee, Water, Washington and Sheridan.
Taylor said, “This is putting puzzle pieces together. After this piece comes another piece and then another. Full House will be a destination. People will come not only from the area but other parts of the country. This can be a really big piece of the puzzle.”
The only casino between Rosemont, Illinois and Milwaukee, American Place will offer a 1,500-seat entertainment venue, a boutique hotel, a heliport and more.
