The Chicago Bears‘ time in Illinois could be coming to an end in the near future.
In an open letter to fans on Wednesday night, President and CEO Kevin Warren revealed that the team plans to potentially explore options outside of the state to build a new one.
“Earlier this season, we shared that Arlington Heights is the only location in Cook County that meets the requirements for a world-class NFL stadium,” Warren wrote. “We still believe it offers the best and only path forward in Cook County, given there are no other viable alternatives. Over the past several years, we have worked in good faith with Illinois leaders and made clear our commitment and readiness to invest more than $2 billion by the Chicago Bears, one of the largest private investments in state and NFL history.”
What Other State Could The Bears Move To?
GettyBears team president Kevin Warren met with Naperville’s mayor about an alternative stadium plan on Friday, June 2.
In the letter, Warren admitted that the team plans to expand its search.
“In addition to Arlington Park, we need to expand our search and critically evaluate opportunities throughout the wider Chicagoland region, including Northwest Indiana,” he said. “This is not about leverage. We spent years trying to build a new home in Cook County. We invested significant time and resources evaluating multiple sites and rationally decided on Arlington Heights.
“Our fans deserve a world-class stadium. Our players and coaches deserve a venue that matches the championship standard they strive for every day. With that in mind, our organization must keep every credible pathway open to deliver that future.”
With that, he also pointed out that the team has not asked for state taxpayer dollars to build the stadium at Arlington Park.
“We asked only for a commitment to essential local infrastructure (roads, utilities, and site improvements), which is more than typical for projects of this size,” Warren added. ” Additionally, we sought reasonable property tax certainty to secure financing. We listened to state leadership and relied on their direction and guidance, yet our efforts have been met with no legislative partnership.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker Issues Statement Following This Announcement
GettyIllinois Gov. JB Pritzker
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker made it clear that he is not in favor of the Bears relocating to another state.
“Suggesting the Bears would move to Indiana is a startling slap in the face to all the beloved and loyal fans who have been rallying around the team during this strong season,” Pritzker spokesperson Matt Hill said in a statement (via ESPN). “The Governor’s a Bears fan who has always wanted them to stay in Chicago. He has also said that ultimately they are a private business.”
Arlington Heights officials also issued a statement following Warren’s latter.
“Both the Village and the Chicago Bears remain confident that their Arlington Park property in Arlington Heights is the best option for their new stadium and entertainment district,” the statement read (via NBC Chicago). “However, we understand their need to explore any and all viable locations as part of their due diligence process. Due to restrictive legislation in Illinois, this exploration now includes moving to Indiana.”
Bears’ Stadium Saga Deepens as Search Expands