The Chicago Bears are doubling down on their vision for a new stadium, with President and CEO Kevin Warren confirming that the focus remains on a downtown location near Lake Michigan. Despite owning prime land in Arlington Heights, Warren reaffirmed that the Bears are committed to building within Chicago’s city limits. The team aims to break ground on their $5 billion stadium project by 2025, staying focused on a site near the Museum Campus.
Warren, reflecting on his 20 months with the team, pointed to the substantial progress made thus far, including reaching agreements with local officials over property tax disputes in Arlington Heights. While this suburban site holds potential, the Bears’ heart is still set on a lakeside stadium.
Plans for the new stadium include a domed structure next to Soldier Field, with the Bears contributing $2 billion and seeking $1 billion in bonds for funding. The project is backed by Mayor Brandon Johnson but faces hurdles with state leadership and community groups like Friends of the Parks, who oppose the project due to concerns about public land use and the environmental impact on the lakefront.
Though obstacles remain, the Bears are determined to turn their vision into reality, with construction slated for 2025. The race to secure political approval and overcome opposition continues, but the team is optimistic about making their mark on Chicago’s skyline.
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