Illinois gambling regulators gave an initial green light to what could become the state’s 11th casino Thursday, handing down preliminary approval for a proposed Hard Rock resort in Rockford.
It’s still no sure bet the developers will get the coveted casino license, though, as the Illinois Gaming Board is still investigating one of the project’s key investors over his video gambling empire.
The board’s unanimous vote finding “preliminary suitability” allows the group headed by Naperville entrepreneur Dan Fischer to begin laying the groundwork for the long-sought project.
But gaming board Administrator Marcus Fruchter emphasized “it is not the ultimate step, in that it is not final licensure, nor is it a guarantee of final licensure” for Fischer’s group.
Picture Source: Res Publica Group
