A long-awaited casino expected to provide an economic boost to Waukegan and the area opened this past weekend to VIP fanfare and a big crowd.

Thousands attended the grand opening Friday of The Temporary by American Place, the 75,000-square-foot initial offering operated by Full House Resorts Inc. Construction is pending on a permanent facility nearby.

“The American Place casino is the biggest development we’ve had in Waukegan in years, and it is incredible that we have finally reached this critical milestone of opening The Temporary,” said Mayor Ann Taylor…

“This casino will serve as an economic engine for the greater Lake County region and beyond, bringing new jobs and visitors to our city and Fountain Square,” she added.