he Chicago Bears have announced that they will begin plans to build a new stadium near their current home of Soldier Field, a change from their original plans of moving to a location further outside of the city.
“The Chicago Bears are committed to contributing over $2 billion to build a stadium and improve open spaces for all families, fans and the general public to enjoy in the City of Chicago,” the team said in a statement to CNN on Monday.
“The future stadium of the Chicago Bears will bring a transformative opportunity to our region – boosting the economy, creating jobs, facilitating mega events and generating millions in tax revenue. We look forward to sharing more information when our plans are finalized.”
Sources familiar with the plan told CNN affiliate WLS that the team is investing private money to build a publicly-owned domed stadium on the lakefront to the south of where Soldier Field stands.
Remaining near the city center will make Chicago a more viable host for future Super Bowls given its transport infrastructure.
The decision comes after speculation the Bears were considering building a new stadium further outside the city center following its acquisition of 326 acres of property in Arlington Heights last year.
