DeLuca Highlights the Benefits of Southland Casino

CHICAGO HEIGHTS, Ill. – In response to news that the villages of Hazel Crest and Homewood were selected by the state to develop a new south suburban casino, state Rep. Anthony DeLuca, D-Chicago Heights, sought to highlight the economic benefits the Casino would bring to the area.

“This casino will be a great economic generator for the state and south suburban economies,” said DeLuca. “In addition to revenue that can go towards alleviating the tax burden on local residents, an estimated 600 construction jobs will be created and 800 permanent jobs will come as a result of this $500 million development.”

The casino has been sought after by officials in both Homewood and Hazel Crest for close to 9 years. The winning proposal selected by the state gaming board was put forth by the Wind Creek Casino Company and has the support of both villages. The new 64,000 square-foot casino will sit off of I-80 and Halsted right along the Illinois-Indiana border. It will hold 1,300 slots and 56 table games. In addition to gaming, developers will build a 4-star diamond hotel with restaurants, bars and an entertainment center.

“The next step is for the state gaming board to grant the permit that will allow for Wind Creek to break ground,” said DeLuca. “We are talking about hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue that can go toward the vital concerns of local residents, like education funding, public safety and decreased property taxes. This project has my full support, and I will assist in any way possible.”