Illinois lawmakers recently failed to pass legislation that would facilitate a move for the Chicago Bears to Arlington Heights. In response, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has shown support for reconsidering Chicago as a potential site for a new stadium. Johnson expressed tentative backing for a proposed bill allowing municipalities in Cook County with populations over 70,000 to establish a stadium authority. This would enable the Bears to finance the stadium while maintaining public ownership, thus avoiding property taxes.
State Senator Bill Cunningham was acknowledged by Illinois Senate President Don Harmon after Cunningham’s bill for a new Bears stadium in Illinois passed in the Senate on the final night of the spring legislative session. Johnson appreciated the bill’s proponents and the recognition of public stadium ownership’s value. However, the House did not take action on the measure, considering it too rushed.
In 2024, Johnson and the Bears proposed a $1 billion stadium to replace Soldier Field, relying on public borrowing and $1.5 billion for infrastructure. This plan stalled when Governor J.B. Pritzker declined to support taxpayer funding for the stadium.
This spring, Johnson pushed once again for a city-based stadium. While a formal proposal was lacking, Johnson commended the legislative framework for emphasizing public ownership and using sports authorities for infrastructure funding. The Chicago plan from 2024 relied on the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority and a 2% hotel tax, used unsuccessfully in recent years to cover Soldier Field’s renovation costs, causing the city to cover additional expenses.
In Arlington Heights, Mayor Jim Tinaglia expressed disappointment at the failure to pass Bears-related legislation. Tinaglia highlighted the redevelopment potential of the Arlington Park property and committed to community engagement and planning. Despite legislative setbacks labeled as a “fumble,” Tinaglia emphasized continuing to represent Arlington Heights’ interests.
Scott Hagel, senior vice president for the Bears’ public and governmental affairs, was present during the spring session. The fan club Touchdown Arlington, led by Ernest Rose, criticized state lawmakers for their inaction, suggesting they are pushing the Bears to consider relocating to Indiana instead.
The Bears initially proposed purchasing the former Arlington International Racecourse in 2021, with plans for an enclosed stadium following their 2023 purchase. Legislative priorities shifted when Indiana lawmakers swiftly put together a stadium deal in Hammond. The Bears announced they would evaluate both Arlington Heights and Hammond, aiming to finalize decisions by late spring or early summer.
Opposition from Chicago House Democrats against granting team incentives without reciprocation was anticipated. Rose hopes leaders like House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch and Senate President Don Harmon can develop a viable framework by fall, although prospects remain uncertain.