The city’s mayor unveiled ambitious plans to renovate historic Soldier Field. But Bears ownership sees better commercial opportunities elsewhere
Last fall, the team’s ownership reached a purchase agreement on a sprawling 326-acre site in the Chicago suburbs.
The Bears’ purchase is essentially pending although before it becomes final, there are a litany of logistical, financial, and legal loops both sides will need to shore up.
If the purchase is indeed finalized, Bears fans will be in for a massive change. While fans can rely on their team’s quarterback struggles continuing until the end of time
Switching homes from a relic steeped in NFL history to a modern facility far from the city’s heart will be an emotional adjustment.
Switching homes from a relic steeped in NFL history to a modern facility far from the city’s heart will be an emotional adjustment.
For Chicago residents, it presents logistical challenges as well. The Bears’ proposed new home is 30 miles from Soldier Field in Arlington Heights, near O’Hare airport.
It may only be 26 miles from downtown, but as anyone who has braved the perennially clogged I-90 can attest, the ride is often over an hour.
But, perhaps crucially, the new location presents a goldmine of financial opportunity for Bears ownership, who do not own the area around Soldier Field.
Every statement from the Bears reiterates their intention to purchase Arlington Park, but the city of Chicago isn’t giving up without a fight.
The city’s mayor, Lori Lightfoot, is determined to keep the Bears playing at Soldier Field beyond 2033, when their lease expires