Walker's Bluff is granted a 'determination of preliminary suitability by The Illinois Gaming Board. (Gov. Pritzker announced licensing approval for Walker's Bluff expansion, July 2019) | twitter.com/GovPritzker/status/1146096501124452352/photo/1
Walker's Bluff is granted a 'determination of preliminary suitability by The Illinois Gaming Board. (Gov. Pritzker announced licensing approval for Walker's Bluff expansion, July 2019) | twitter.com/GovPritzker/status/1146096501124452352/photo/1
The Illinois Gaming Board approved the next step in Walker's Bluff's license application for a new casino and resort in Williamson County earlier this month.
Though additional steps are needed to complete the licensure, the Board granted a 'determination of preliminary suitability,' meaning the company can begin construction, with Board approval, on either a temporary or permanent site for the venue, WSILTV reported.
"This is great news for Southern Illinois. Plus, there was a commitment made to sign a project labor agreement," Sen. Terri Bryant wrote in a Facebook post. "Which means the well-paying jobs created by this project will stay local."
Elite Casino Resorts plans the construct to be one-phase. According to WSILTV, the development cost is estimated to be more than $150 million and will offer hundreds of job openings.
The board’s decision prompts Walker’s Bluff to begin construction for its casino, two hotels, event center, and water park soon. WSILTV reports that the company confirmed plans for further expansion in March of this year.
The casino resort will offer access to more than 650 slot machines, 20 table games, 116 hotel rooms, a pool, spa, and a retail shop. Other features include an event center for concerts and events, and signature restaurants for family dining, which include Ruthie’s Steak and Seafood and Draft Day Sports Lounge.
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