The Bears have long been discussing leaving Chicago—with potential locales for a new domed stadium including Hammond, Indiana and Arlington Heights.
Now, the city of Chicago is reportedly preparing for a future of Soldier Field that excludes the Bears and transforms the lakefront stadium into a special events venue.
Park District pitching Soldier Field plan to state leaders
Officials from the Chicago Park District recently pitched a plan for Soldier Field to the governor’s office and Illinois lawmakers, as first reported by Fox32.
The estimated $630 million proposal reportedly involves converting the stadium into a concert and special events venue, according to documents obtained by Fox32.
Breaking down the costs
The stadium conversion costs reportedly include more than $100 million in direct upgrades and up to half a billion dollars in surrounding infrastructure improvements.
The Bears would cover a significant portion of the costs, while additional dollars could come from the taxpayer-subsidized State Road Fund.
Chicago Park District officials did not confirm or deny the plans to Fox32, but did tell the network that they remain committed to positioning Soldier Field as a prime economic asset for the city.
In the meantime, Governor J.B. Pritzker has maintained that the possibility for the Bears to stay in Chicago or elsewhere in Illinois remains on the table.