Chicago Bears Unveil Ambitious New Stadium Plan, Promising ‘No New Taxes’
The Chicago Bears have unveiled plans for a new lakefront stadium, highlighting the historic Soldier Field colonnades and promising no new taxes for the project. The stadium, expected to be completed by the 2028 season, would host Super Bowls, Final Fours, and concerts, while also providing 20% more open space.
Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren touted the Super Bowls, Final Fours, Illinois high school football championships, and concerts that would take place in the new stadium, emphasizing the economic benefits it would bring to the city. The plan also includes a new translucent roof to protect fans from weather elements.
However, Governor J.B. Pritzker expressed skepticism about the funding for the project, which is estimated to cost at least $1 billion in public funds. Pritzker has questioned whether the project is a good deal for taxpayers and has pointed out that the state is already facing a large budget deficit.
The Bears have suggested funding the project through bonds that would be paid off using revenues from e-pull tabs, a gambling game similar to lottery tickets. They have also proposed extending the 2% hotel tax for another 40 years.
The stadium plan has received mixed reactions from the public and civic groups. Some residents have expressed concerns about the cost and financing of the project, while others have welcomed the potential economic benefits it could bring to the city.
A nonprofit group, Friends of the Park, has also expressed opposition to the stadium plan, arguing that it would harm the lakefront environment.
The Bears have emphasized the urgency of the project, warning that the cost will increase by $150 million for every year without a shovel in the ground.
The stadium plan is a significant development for the Chicago Bears and the city of Chicago. It remains to be seen if the project will move forward, but it is sure to be a major topic of discussion in the coming months.
