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For several months, it’s been presumed that the Chicago Bears were leaving historic Soldier Field and relocating to suburban Arlington Heights. The move to the former Arlington horse racing track seemed like a done deal.
However, the project appears to have hit some serious roadblocks. The Bears released a prepared statement via NBC Sports Chicago that indicates they’re looking at additional options outside of Arlington Heights.
“The Chicago Bears goal of building the largest single development project in Illinois history led by billions of dollars in private capital investment, and the jobs and economic benefits generated, is at risk in Arlington Heights. The stadium-based project remains broadly popular in Arlington Heights, Chicagoland and the state. However, the property’s original assessment at five times the 2021 tax value, and the recent settlement with Churchill Downs for 2022 being three times higher, fails to reflect the property is not operational and not commercially viable in its current state. We will continue the ongoing demolition activity and work toward a path forward in Arlington Heights, but it is no longer our singular focus. It is our responsibility to listen to other municipalities in Chicagoland about potential locations that can deliver on this transformational opportunity for our fans, our club and the State of Illinois.”
The Daily Herald reports that the Bears had a formal meeting with the mayor of another Chicago suburb, Naperville. Friday’s meeting was a step toward a potential project outside of the Arlington Heights plan. As noted by the Daily Herald, Naperville currently lacks any open space large enough to accommodate a new domed stadium and training facility, as is planned at Arlington Heights.
The Bears still seem intent on leaving the aging downtown venue, which the team has maintained is not financially viable any longer. But where they move to is now more of a question mark.