Chicago Bears Board Approves Move to Hammond, Indiana for New Stadium
The Bears' board voted to advance a stadium project in Hammond, Indiana, after Illinois legislative efforts to keep the team in the state stalled.
The Chicago Bears announced on June 5 that its board of directors voted to move forward with a stadium development in Hammond, Indiana, with the specific site to be selected later. Chairman George H. McCaskey and President and CEO Kevin Warren said the project would create a "world-class" venue that links Northwest Indiana to Chicago and generate new opportunities for residents and businesses.
The decision follows the Illinois House’s failure to act on a Senate bill that would have allowed a public-private partnership for a stadium in Arlington Heights or Chicago, a move that would have exempted the team from property taxes. House Speaker Chris Welch said discussions would continue over the summer, but the bill stalled in the Senate over concerns about tax relief for schools and local districts.
Indiana Governor Mike Braun signed Senate Bill 27 in February, establishing a financing framework for a taxpayer-funded stadium and mixed-use entertainment district in Hammond. Braun described the legislation as an "incredible economic opportunity" for the region.
The Bears have said they will continue to evaluate both the Hammond and Arlington Heights options, aiming to select a site by spring or summer and target a 2030 opening for an enclosed stadium. Team officials indicated the project could cost about $3.2 billion, with the franchise covering roughly $2 billion and seeking additional public financing.
While the stadium location remains undecided, the team confirmed that its practice facility, Halas Hall, will stay in Lake Forest, Illinois.