A comprehensive look at the Chicago Bears' stadium dilemma, as the team weighs two viable sites after Illinois legislative gridlock.
New Stadium Showdown: Chicago Bears Weigh Illinois vs. Indiana
The Chicago Bears are evaluating two viable sites for a new stadium — Arlington Heights, Illinois, and Hammond, Indiana — after the Illinois General Assembly concluded its spring legislative session without passing a bill that would have facilitated construction in the state. The team has stated that no viable location exists within Chicago city limits.
🏟️ Background: A Century at Soldier Field
The Chicago Bears currently play at Soldier Field, built in 1924. It is the oldest and smallest stadium in the National Football League (NFL), holding approximately 61,500 seats. The team has leased the facility since 1971, with the current lease extending through 2033 (an early termination option is available for a fee). Over $500 million in debt remains from the stadium's 2003 renovation.
The Bears have never owned a stadium since the franchise was founded in 1920. The team signed a purchase agreement for land in Arlington Heights in September 2021 and finalized the $197.2 million purchase of the 326-acre former Arlington International Racecourse site in February 2023.
🏗️ Proposed Stadium Sites
Arlington Heights, Illinois
The Bears unveiled a $5 billion plan in September 2022 for an enclosed stadium and year-round entertainment complex in Arlington Heights, approximately 30 miles from downtown Chicago. The team has committed roughly $2 billion in private funding for the stadium portion.
"We are not trying to foist this on the taxpayers of the state of Illinois." — Illinois Governor JB Pritzker
Legislative efforts: The Bears sought state legislation to provide property tax certainty for large development projects. The "Mega Projects" bill would have allowed developers of projects costing at least $500 million to negotiate property tax payments for an extended period. Supporters argued this tax certainty was necessary; critics opposed public funding for an NFL franchise.
Legislative outcome: On the final day of the spring session, the Illinois Senate passed a bill (37-17) allowing Cook County municipalities with populations of at least 70,000 to create financing authorities for publicly owned stadiums. Under the proposal:
- The municipality would own the land and stadium.
- The team would pay for construction.
- The facility would be exempt from property taxes as a public building.
- No taxpayer dollars would be used for stadium construction.
However, the Illinois House of Representatives adjourned without voting on the bill. House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch ruled out a special session, stating, "Our caucus is used to taking our time and getting it right."
Hammond, Indiana
The proposed site in Hammond, Indiana, is located near Wolf Lake, approximately 19-20 miles from downtown Chicago and accessible via Interstate 90 and the South Shore Line commuter rail.
"We believe a world-class stadium project in Hammond will transform the region." — Bears Chairman George McCaskey
Legislative action: The Indiana General Assembly passed legislation creating a Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority with the power to issue bonds, acquire land, and finance construction for a potential stadium. The bill passed the Indiana Senate 45-4 and the Indiana House 95-4. Governor Mike Braun signed it into law on February 26.
The financing mechanism includes taxpayer-backed support through taxes on admissions, hotels, restaurants, and tolls.
Team commitment: The Bears have committed $2 billion toward the proposed Indiana stadium project.
🗣️ Key Statements
Official Position Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker Will not support using significant taxpayer funds for a stadium. Left open possibility of a special legislative session if consensus emerges before fall. Indiana Gov. Mike Braun Signed the bill, highlighting Indiana's "pro-growth environment" and a promising site in Northwest Indiana. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson "Hammond, Arlington Heights? They ain't Chicago." Argued Chicago offers the best opportunity to retain the team. Bears President Kevin Warren Expects to determine where the stadium will be built by late spring or early summer. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell Stated both locations have presented their cases, and the Bears will soon choose between the two.📅 Timeline of Developments
Date Event September 2021 Bears sign purchase agreement for Arlington Heights land September 2022 Bears unveil $5 billion plan for enclosed stadium in Arlington Heights February 2023 Bears finalize $197.2 million purchase of Arlington Heights site April 2024 Bears shift focus to building near Soldier Field February 2026 Indiana Governor Braun signs bill authorizing stadium financing May 2025 Bears begin exploring sites in Northwest Indiana May 21 Bears state only Arlington Heights and Hammond are under consideration Late May 2026 Illinois legislative session ends without stadium bill June 4, 2026 Bears board of directors votes to advance stadium plans in Hammond📊 Public Sentiment
A poll conducted by Axios Chicago indicated that 74% of participants would express strong disapproval if the Bears relocated to Indiana. Reactions in Northwest Indiana were generally more supportive, with some residents citing potential regional development and the area's existing connection to Chicago.
🔴 Current Status
As of the most recent reports, the Chicago Bears Board of Directors voted on June 4, 2026, to advance plans for a new domed stadium in Hammond, Indiana. The team has not yet selected a specific site within Hammond and is evaluating different configurations of the Wolf Lake property.
The Bears have stated that a final decision between Arlington Heights and Hammond has not been made, and no agreements have been executed with any entity.
If built in Hammond, construction could begin as early as spring 2027, with completion by 2031. The Bears would:
- Retain all stadium-generated revenue.
- Have an option to purchase the facility after 40 years, once the bonds are paid off by Indiana taxpayers.
Illinois officials, including Governor Pritzker, Senate President Don Harmon, and House Speaker Welch, have stated they remain open to further discussions with the Bears.