Rockford continues with its casino selection

Rockford is expected to feature a casino thanks to massive gambling expansion in Illinois, and the city is getting ready for it.

US.- Illinois is the latest state to approve a massive gambling expansion bill, which paved the way for new casinos. Rockford wants to feature a casino, thus it has hired two consulting firms to select an operator and location.

The staff and City Council members of Rockford will receive her from Union Gaming Analytics and Taft Stettinius & Hollister. Both consulting firms will help the city meet the October 25 deadline for submitting proposals to the Illinois Gaming Board.

Last week, the City Council approved a budget of US$150k on consultants. The US$75k application fee that should accompany each proposal covers the cost.

While Union Gaming focuses on market analysis and proposal evaluations, Taft Stettinius & Hollister will study proposals and assist in the negotiation of a host community agreement, RRStar said.

“Other items that we anticipate will be in an agreement include size, scope, community impact — including infrastructure improvements — local vendor usage goals, diversity and inclusion, social services, and public safety,” said Nick Meyer, the city’s legal director.

Hard Rock International’s proposal

Hard Rock International unveiled last week its plans for a casino in Rockford, Illinois. The company’s CEO Jim Allen and Cheap Trick guitarist Rick Nielsen announced the preliminary plans for the proposal.

The company presented two renderings and a map of the proposed casino. According to the site map, the casino would be located in the general area of the former Clock Tower Resort. The venue would offer gambling options, music, entertainment, restaurants, retail and hotel rooms, Allen said.

The CEO added that Rockford is a strong location for a casino because of its history as the centre point of entertainment. He also said that it benefits from its proximity to a major highway, Interstate 90.