CHICAGO, Illinois – The Chicago Bears are embarking on a new chapter as they shift their focus to remain in the city by developing plans for a new stadium south of Soldier Field. This decision comes after the team closed on a 326-acre property in Arlington Heights, Illinois, that was once home to the Arlington International Racecourse.
According to a source familiar with the team’s plans, the Bears are looking to invest over $2 billion in private funds to build a new domed stadium and park space that will offer year-round community amenities. The proposed location for this new stadium is south of Soldier Field, with parking infrastructure to be maintained in the south lot.
Team president and CEO Kevin Warren expressed the Bears’ commitment to enhancing open spaces for families, fans, and the general public in Chicago through the new stadium project. The stadium is anticipated to boost the economy, create jobs, facilitate mega events, and generate significant tax revenue for the region.
While the Bears’ current lease at Soldier Field is set to expire in 2033, the team plans to remain at the stadium until the new facility is completed. After the new stadium is operational, the current Soldier Field site will be repurposed for public parks and athletic fields, creating additional space for community use.
Public support for the new Bears stadium project in the city of Chicago has been strong, with poll results showing that a majority of Chicagoans favor the construction of a new domed stadium on the museum campus. The proposed location and the team’s efforts to remain in Chicago have garnered significant support from local residents.
In exploring options beyond Arlington Heights, the Bears have engaged with various municipalities to identify alternative stadium sites. Meetings with city officials and discussions about the team’s commitment to Chicago have been ongoing, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the Bears and local government to ensure the team’s continued presence in the city.
If the Bears successfully build their new lakefront stadium, the team is likely to put the Arlington Park property up for sale. This strategic move aligns with the team’s vision to consolidate its operations in a new state-of-the-art facility that will not only benefit the team but also the community at large.