It’s bordered by Roosevelt Road to the north, Clark Street to the east, 16th Street to the south, and the South Branch of the Chicago River to the west. The 78 (the name is a riff on Chicago’s existing 77 neighborhoods) is located south of the Loop and north of Chinatown. And we think it is the easiest of these three entities for Chicago to hold accountable in the long term. Rivers has shown an ability to showcase Chicago businesses, such as Hugo’s Frog Bar, which has an outpost in Des Plaines. The major investor, Neil Bluhm, has deep roots in this city and a vested interest in doing right by everyone. Rush Street Gaming is a proven operator of arguably the most successful of the current Illinois casinos, Rivers in Des Plaines. We think Rivers is the most qualified and suitable operator, and the area known as The 78 is the most viable site. He said Bally's has also contributed $2 million of their own money toward neighborhood security.We’ve read all the proposals, listened to arguments. Hopkins said the city and CPD will review this opening weekend and adjust resources accordingly. That's been the neighborhood's concern, and it, frankly, is a valid concern,' Hopkins said. But, the casino and the crowds that it attracts might possibly exacerbate it. There haven't been any issues so far, but the alderman said some are nervous for what the casino could bring to an already increasingly high-crime area. 'We wanted to start with a strong police presence, because you can always scale back from there if need be,' Hopkins said. Alderman Brian Hopkins said that was intentional.

OEMC was also there to help with traffic control on the first day. 'It's pretty hard to imagine thousands of casino goers going back and forth through neighborhood at all hours to gamble is going to make that situation better,' said River North Residents Association Director Emeritus Brian Israel.Ībout a dozen officers were seen outside the building at all times on Saturday.

The area has struggled with increased crime including carjackings, armed robberies and shootings over the past year. Others are a bit concerned about any new traffic congestion and crime.

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