The Chicago Bears are finalising due diligence on two potential stadium sites in Hammond, Indiana, even as they maintain talks with Illinois leaders ahead of the state legislature’s return later this month. The NFL franchise confirmed on Friday that they continue to explore options in both states as they seek to replace Soldier Field, their current home on Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore.
Team officials said they “appreciate the recent engagement from Illinois leadership to explore legislation which has allowed us to share our feedback.” The Illinois Legislature is set to reconvene November 17-19 and December 1-3, with lawmakers possibly revisiting a stadium bill they failed to pass in the spring.
Meanwhile, Indiana lawmakers approved Senate Enrolled Act 27 earlier this year, setting up a stadium authority in Hammond to oversee the construction and operation of a new publicly owned stadium. The plan also permits increased county restaurant, hotel, and admission taxes to finance the project. This legislation is aimed at attracting the Bears to northwest Indiana.
“We continue to work collaboratively with local and state leaders in Indiana to advance our stadium development plans in Hammond, where we are finalising due diligence details across two sites in the Wolf Lake area,” the Bears said in a statement.
The franchise reiterated its intention to build “a world-class stadium and mixed-use district” and said it expects “productive dialogue with both leadership teams in the coming weeks.” The Bears added they have “a responsibility and obligation to explore every option available to the club,” expressing hope for a “transformational project that will attract global events and deliver jobs and economic growth to all of Chicagoland.”
The current Soldier Field stadium, located within Chicago city limits, has been the Bears’ home since 1971 but has aged significantly, prompting the search for a modern replacement. The ongoing discussions with Illinois lawmakers suggest the Bears have not ruled out staying in Chicago, even as plans in Indiana approach completion.
Indiana’s stadium authority would oversee a publicly owned venue, marking a significant financial commitment from the state and local government. The approach contrasts with Illinois, where the Bears have sought legislative support for a stadium bill that stalled earlier this year.
The Bears’ dual-track negotiations reflect the complex political and financial factors involved in building a new NFL stadium. Both states have shown willingness to support the project, though the Bears have yet to announce a final decision on location.
As Illinois lawmakers prepare for the upcoming sessions in Springfield, the Bears’ feedback could influence the shape of any proposed legislation. The team’s engagement with Illinois leadership indicates the franchise is keeping options open while advancing its plans in Hammond.
The Bears’ statement did not provide a timeline for a decision or construction start but confirmed ongoing cooperation with officials in both states. The club continues to weigh the benefits of each location as it aims to secure a stadium that meets modern NFL standards and supports economic development in the greater Chicago area.
According to Yahoo Sports.
