Chicago Mayor Offers A $2.2 Billion Project to Keep the Bears From Moving to the Suburbs

Like other NFL teams, the Chicago Bears are in pursuit of maximizing their revenues by relocating to a better place in the suburbs. This decision will certainly abandon the Soldier field from the NFL’s priority list. Moreover, it will prove to be a major setback for the city’s development aspirations. Meanwhile, Mayor Lori Lightfoot intervened on the matter with a dramatic $2.2 billion proposition to renovate the Soldier field and stop the franchise from making an abrupt exit from this iconic stadium.

For a very long time, the Bears have been facing numerous challenges to live up to the NFL standards. The stadium that was last renovated in 2001 now fails to meet various parameters set by the National Football League. Thus hampering the business aspirations of the franchises.

Eventually, the Bears’ management decided to lay their path by signing a purchase agreement for Arlington International Racecourse. On Monday, Lightfoot came up with a plan that ranges from $900 million to $2.2 billion with three major infrastructural developments.

“We need to invest in Soldier Field. Soldier Field must be a year-round destination,” the Mayor said in a press conference organized at the stadium.

“We are making a compelling case for the Bears to stay in Chicago. They want a Tier One stadium to maximize revenues, and we agree,” she added. However, there is a backdrop to the proposed plan because it lacks clarity as to who will fund such a massive amount for undertaking the project.

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According to the layout, a grand dome over the stadium surrounding it with columns on the end zones modifies the stadium as a multipurpose facility for both soccer and other sports. Increasing the seating capacity from 61,500 to 70,000. Similarly, refurbishing and adding more luxury suites and space for vendors across the field.

How did the Chicago Bears respond to the proposition?

Even if the management agrees to go ahead with the Mayor’s plan, it would take a considerable time for the Bears to set up the infrastructure. However, the franchise seemed undeterred and refused to change its decision.

“The only potential project the Chicago Bears are exploring for a new stadium development is Arlington Park.” The team reiterated on Monday. “As part of our mutual agreement with the seller of the property, we are not pursuing alternative stadium deals or sites, including renovations to Soldier Field, while under contract.” They explained in the official statement.

As per the agreement, the Bears have decided to purchase a 326-acre plot for $197.2 million in Arlington Heights. Certainly, this will become an iconic moment in the Bears’ history. And fans can now gear up to relocate to a new venue.

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