CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - The Chicago Bears are pushing ahead with plans to build a new stadium at the lakefront, not Arlington Heights, where the team bought property just over a year ago.
The Bears plan to contribute $2 billion in private funding for a domed stadium south of Soldier Field.
Multiple reports cite a statement from President and CEO Kevin Warren as saying plans for that location will improve open spaces for all to enjoy.
Those plans are expected to include tearing down most of the current stadium except for historic aspects.
A new poll conducted by McGuire Research found three out of five Chicago voters supported a new stadium on the museum campus to keep the team in the city but only three in five are ok with using public money to help pay for it.
Here is Bears President & CEO Kevin Warren’s full statement:
“The Chicago Bears are proud to contribute over $2 billion to build a stadium and improve open spaces for all families, fans and the general public to enjoy in the City of Chicago. The future stadium of the Chicago Bears will bring a transformative opportunity to our region—boosting the economy, creating jobs, facilitating mega events and generating millions in tax revenue. We look forward to sharing more information when our plans are finalized.”
Mayor Brandon Johnson has weighed in, issuing the following statement:
"I have said all along that meaningful private investment and a strong emphasis on public benefit are my requirements for public-private partnerships in our city. The Chicago Bears plans are a welcome step in that direction and a testament to Chicago’s economic vitality.
"I look forward to subsequent talks with the Bears, State leadership and community stakeholders about how we can continue to responsibly support the aspirations of the team, its fans and all residents of the City of Chicago."
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