Chicago Bears Set to Bid Farewell to Soldier Field: New Chapter Begins with Arlington Heights Stadium Project
A Historic Transition for Chicago’s NFL Franchise
In a significant announcement to season ticket holders, Chicago Bears President Kevin Warren has confirmed the organization’s commitment to building a new stadium at the former Arlington International Racecourse site, effectively ending speculation about the team’s future at Soldier Field.
The Vision for the Future
The Bears are planning to construct a new stadium in Arlington Heights, Illinois – approximately 25 miles northwest of Soldier Field. According to Warren, the project “will require zero state money for construction” and positions the team to bid for hosting a Super Bowl as early as 2031.
The ambitious development plans include hosting major events such as the Super Bowl, college basketball’s Final Four, global soccer games, and concerts. The project is expected to generate significant economic benefits, including $8 billion in regional construction economic impact and create 43,000 regional construction jobs and 4,200 permanent jobs post-construction.
Financial and Legislative Implications
The new stadium is projected to generate substantial tax revenue, with annual figures expected to be 58% higher for the City of Chicago and 41% higher for the state of Illinois compared to current Soldier Field operations. The team has the option to buy out their lease at Soldier Field in 2026 for $84 million.
Legacy of Soldier Field
Soldier Field, which opened in 1924, has been the Bears’ home since 1971. Only the Green Bay Packers, who have played at Lambeau Field since 1957, have maintained a longer tenure in one home stadium. Over the past 21 years since Soldier Field’s total renovation, $61.7 million has been invested in capital improvements, with an additional $12 million fund created by the Bears, the park district, and Levy restaurants to improve stadium food concessions.
Looking Ahead
The Bears are targeting to break ground in the summer of 2025, with plans for a grand opening in the summer of 2028. In justifying the move, Warren emphasized that more than half of Bears season ticket holders live within 25 miles of the Arlington Heights site, noting that “The Chicago Bears belong to more than just Chicago. We belong to the entire state of Illinois”.
