The Chicago Bears revealed details of their new lakefront stadium plans on Wednesday, announcing intentions to construct a cutting-edge, domed facility with an estimated price tag of $4.7 billion. The team aims to finance this endeavor through a mix of public and private funding.
"Bears chairman George McCaskey expressed enthusiasm for investing in Chicago, stating that the stadium project and associated enhancements will be a boon for both residents and visitors," said McCaskey.
Previously, the Bears had proposed a development in Arlington Heights spanning over 300 acres, featuring residential, hotel, and retail components. However, their focus has now shifted exclusively to the lakefront site.
The proposed stadium would accommodate over 70,000 spectators under a fixed, translucent dome. It is planned to be situated just south of Soldier Field, with the existing structure set to be demolished, leaving the historic colonnades intact as part of an expansive campus that will include parks, public spaces, and youth athletic facilities.
In addition, the Bears highlighted plans to increase green spaces around the Museum Campus and along the lakefront, replacing the current stadium with sports fields and gardens while preserving the Soldier Field colonnades as a tribute to military veterans.
Mayor Brandon Johnson endorsed the project, hailing it as a major win for Chicago. The financial breakdown for the stadium includes $325 million for the initial opening, $510 million for full optimization, and an optional $665 million for additional infrastructure improvements to boost public economic benefits and enhance the campus's circulation.