The Chicago Bears Propose a $5 Billion Plan for a New Lakefront Stadium with Public Funding
The Chicago Bears have unveiled a nearly $5 billion proposal for an enclosed stadium next to Soldier Field. The plan includes $3.2 billion for the stadium and $1.5 billion for infrastructure. The team is seeking public funding to make the project possible.
The stadium would add green space and improve access to the city's Museum Campus. It could also include a publicly owned hotel.
The Bears plan to provide more than $2 billion in funding, with the remaining funds coming from an NFL loan and bonds. The project is expected to generate $8 billion in economic impact for the region.
The stadium would be built in three phases and take up to five years to complete. It would be constructed on a parking lot south of Soldier Field, the Bears' home since 1971.
Mayor Brandon Johnson endorsed the project, stating that it aligns with Daniel Burnham's "Plan of Chicago." However, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and other legislative leaders expressed skepticism about the proposal.
The Bears previously explo