Construction at Bally’s Paused Due to Concerns Over Subcontractor Ties to Mob

Construction on Bally’s River West casino in River West has come to a halt following a recent investigation by the Chicago Sun-Times that shed light on the unauthorized use of a subcontractor with ties to organized crime. D&P Construction, a Melrose Park-based company previously linked to the Chicago mob by the FBI, was reported to be providing dumpsters at the casino construction site. In response to inquiries raised by the Sun-Times, the Illinois Gaming Board intervened, issuing a stop-work order for the construction.

Found to be working through a minority-led general contracting group called Chicago Community Builders Collective, D&P Construction’s involvement in the construction of Bally’s $1.7 billion project on the former Chicago Tribune printing plant site raised red flags. Lauren Westerfield, a spokesperson for Bally’s, confirmed that the gaming board had alerted the casino about the unauthorized subcontractor on Thursday, prompting the suspension of construction activities.

In a statement addressing the situation, Westerfield emphasized the casino’s commitment to working with the Illinois Gaming Board in rectifying the issue and preventing any such occurrences in the future. Highlighting the collaborative effort with the Chicago Community Builder’s Collective to promote opportunities for smaller city contractors, Westerfield expressed optimism in aligning with the gaming board’s directives for a smooth continuation of the project.

The Illinois Gaming Board’s decision to halt construction arises from the necessity to investigate the unauthorized and undisclosed vendors at the site. In accordance with the gaming board’s regulations, full disclosure and approval of all contractors, vendors, and subcontractors involved in the construction process are mandatory. The recent developments have prompted the board to take a cautious approach and assess the situation thoroughly before deciding on any potential disciplinary actions.

This isn’t the first time D&P Construction has attracted scrutiny in the realm of gaming and construction projects. Back in 2001, the gaming board rejected a casino proposal in Rosemont due to concerns surrounding key investors’ connections to D&P Construction and organized crime. The current investigation into the subcontractor’s affiliation and involvement in the Bally’s project underscores the importance of abiding by regulatory requirements.

With the construction pause in effect, Bally’s and the gaming board are collaboratively working towards resolving the issue at hand while ensuring compliance with all regulations moving forward. As the project holds significance for the city’s financial welfare, with substantial revenue projections earmarked for police and fire pensions, the need for a transparent and compliant construction process remains paramount. Despite the setback caused by the recent revelations, both Bally’s and the gaming board are committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and legality throughout the project.