McHugh Construction has been named general contractor for FanDuel Sportsbook, a new 13,000-square-foot sports betting venue being developed by online gaming company FanDuel Group at the United Center in Chicago, home of the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks. McHugh recently began construction on the space, which is a build-out of a two-story area within the United Center adjacent to the atrium, with an expected completion date of August 2022.
Some of McHugh’s most recent work at the United Center includes a 190,000-square-foot East Addition to the building, and a nearby two-rink Blackhawks training and practice facility called Fifth Third Arena.
According to FanDuel Group, the FanDuel Sportsbook at the United Center will be equipped with viewing and sports wagering technology and its two-story lounge is designed to give sports fans a new, fully immersive sportsbook experience unlike any other. FanDuelSportsbook is being constructed in areas that formerly housed offices for the United Center and Blackhawks staff, as well as two lower-level suites. HOK is the architect of record for the project.
The expansive screen will feature simultaneous feeds from multiple live sporting events. In addition, wagering kiosks will be placed throughout the facility, and the VIP area on the second floor will provide a betting and sports entertainment experience. The facility also will have a large commercial kitchen and multiple bars that will provide upscale food and beverage service.
“As the United Center is a busy, active facility with events occurring nearly every day – from sports events to concerts – our construction work has to be closely phased and coordinated to minimize any impact on the guests and staff,” said VP of McHugh Construction Andy Totten. “Full barricades were built to separate construction activities from the public and building services, and all work areas accommodate emergency egress throughout all stages of the work. Also, all construction activities are scheduled to limit any impact of noise, dust, and material deliveries on facility operations.”
McHugh is in the process of hiring the 25+ subcontractors required to complete the project and intends to meet or exceed the participation goals of 26% MBE subcontracts and 6% WBE subcontracts.
