(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The Chicago Bears have released conceptual plans for their proposed redevelopment of the former Arlington International Racecourse property with an open letter promising not to ask for tax dollars to build the stadium.
The architectural renderings show a stadium district on the northwest portion of the property and a mixed-use district to the southeast.
Bears officials say they won't seek public funding for direct construction of the enclosed stadium, but they left open the possibility of seeking government assistance for the rest of the development.
The stadium is, at this point, nondescript, and its depiction in the renderings is simply a “placeholder” to show where the footprint would be, the team said.
The Lightfoot Administration has sought to keep the Bears at their longtime lakefront home of Soldier Field, a venue that is not considered state of the art for a pro football stadium. The Bears say it’s not certain they will move because many variables are in play.
“While under contract with the seller of Arlington Park, we will not be discussing or exploring any other alternative stadium sites or opportunities, including renovations of Soldier Field,” the Bears said. “Much remains to be decided, but any decision will be made in the best interests of the Bears long-term future, our fans and the Chicagoland community.
The team will hold a community meeting Thursday in Arlington Heights to discuss the potential project.
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