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2mo ago

Chicago Bears Prioritize Arlington Heights for New Stadium Development

The team confirms progress with local leaders but awaits legislative and community decisions to finalize plans.

Chicago Bears mascot Staley Da Bear at Soldier Field in Chicago, IL, on August 25, 2018.
Chicago Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren speaks to Mayor Brandon Johnson during the 120th Annual Meeting of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce at the Hilton in the Loop on June 4, 2024. (Eileen T. Meslar/Chicago Tribune)
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Overview

  • The Chicago Bears have shifted their primary focus from a lakefront stadium in Chicago to redeveloping the Arlington Park site, which they purchased in 2023 for nearly $200 million.
  • Arlington Heights officials, including Mayor Jim Tinaglia, emphasize that no binding agreement has been reached and community input will be integral to the decision-making process.
  • The Arlington Heights village board has hired consultants to conduct economic and traffic impact studies for the proposed stadium and entertainment district.
  • State legislation to freeze property tax assessments for megaprojects, a key aspect of the Bears' plan, remains stalled in Springfield with no immediate progress expected before the session ends May 31.
  • Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson maintains that the city remains open to hosting the Bears but acknowledges that the team is now prioritizing Arlington Heights.