Crain’s Chicago Business reports that the Chicago Bears may not move to Arlington Heights, despite considering a potential move that would involve the demolition of Arlington International Racecourse.
Greg Hinz of Crain’s reports that discussions of building in downtown Chicago are not just a plan to improve tax terms in Arlington Heights, but a genuine goal.
The Bears plan to build a new domed stadium south of Soldier Field, potentially going public soon. The stadium would enable the city to host major events like the Super Bowl and NCAA March Madness Final Four. The financing for the stadium will come from a bonding clause in the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority’s law. To address building challenges, Soldier Field will be converted into public parks and athletic fields.
The Chicago Bears have shifted their stadium focus to the lakefront, away from the suburbs, following months of construction.
Hinz also cites two other factors in the shift within the organization: a warmer relationship with Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration, and desires from Kevin Warren differing from his predecessor Ted Phillips.
While Phillips was known for a suburban focus that is reflected by the team’s headquarters in Lake Forest, Hinz reports that Warren appears much more willing to keep the team in Chicago, owing to his background in getting a domed downtown stadium in Minneapolis for the Minnesota Vikings during his time there.
According to Hinz, the clause in the ISFA that the Bears are eyeing for funding is also seen as an opportunity by White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf, who is reported to be exploring a South Loop stadium for the Chicago White Sox.
The Bears’ change in organization is attributed to a warmer relationship with Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration and Kevin Warren’s differing desires from Ted Phillips. Warren is more willing to keep the team in Chicago, having secured a domed downtown stadium in Minneapolis for the Minnesota Vikings. The Bears’ funding clause is seen as an opportunity by White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf.\
