Chicago, though, has not legalized video gambling, instead preserving its market to become the largest American city with a casino. While casino receipts shot up 46%, the total remained below pre-pandemic levels and continued a 20% downward trend since video gaming was legalized a decade ago in bars, restaurants and gas stations across the state. The big jump was due to a recovery from COVID-related declines, more video terminals, and the second full year of legalized sports betting.
Tax revenue from gambling statewide increased 39% in fiscal year 2022 to a record $1.9 billion.
Gambling has been booming in Illinois - but not for the 11 existing casinos. “These two projects will significantly improve our offerings in the highly attractive Chicagoland market while creating hundreds of new full-time jobs for the local communities,” Penn Entertainment CEO Jay Snowden said.įor casino owners, expansion means a chance to bring back some of the business they’ve lost in recent years. In Joliet, the $185 million new building would be located in the Rock Run Crossings mixed-use project near I-80 and I-55.
