Chicago Bears stadium search focuses on Indiana and Illinois sites

The Chicago Bears continue their search for a new stadium location, with the NFL identifying Arlington Heights, Illinois, and Hammond, Indiana, as the only two viable options. While the team’s board of directors previously voted to focus on a $2 billion plan in Indiana, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell stated that the league wants to ensure both Illinois and Indiana have the opportunity to present their best proposals.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has advocated for the team to remain in the city, suggesting a new stadium could be built south of Soldier Field. Johnson argued that the current proposals in Hammond and Arlington Heights lack concrete plans, stating, “The best idea for the people of Chicago is for the Bears to remain in Chicago.”

The stadium search has lasted over five years. Previous attempts by the Bears to secure property tax breaks or PILOT legislation in Illinois failed to pass the state legislature. The team has recently hired lobbyists to support a megaprojects bill as they continue due diligence on the Northwest Indiana site.