Quote:
Originally Posted by TR Devlin
Sequestered from the rest of the city is exactly what I DON'T want to see. A couple weeks ago, Ed Zotti had a great article in the SunTimes explaining this.
Zotti says that Chicago should follow the London model. Here's a picture of what the "London model" looks like: London Hippodrome
He also says that the Thompson Center "might make a good casino — perhaps a spectacular one." I agree.
I also think the block surrounded by Illinois, Rush, Hubbard and Wabash would make a fantastic site. I'd tear down the Realtor's building and widen the Plaza of the Americas (but leave 444 No Michigan). The main pedestrian entrance to the casino would be on the east side, facing the Tribune Tower. With hotel and residential above the casino, this would be a very large project; i.e., easily more than $1 billion. I could go on but I'm getting into fantasy land. |
Totally agree on Thompson. Imagine the gambling floor being down where the food court is and the huge open atrium above. You could find a way to knock out some slabs on the 3rd and/or 4th floor and create a small entertainment venue and use the smaller floor plates as hotel rooms, all looking down onto the casino floor. Also keeps street level retail alive for an active streetscape. Seems like a natural use for an otherwise garbage property without enormous modifications.