Chicago Bears refocus on Arlington Heights for new stadium

CHICAGO - Ever since the Chicago Bears bought a massive chunk of land in northwest suburban Arlington Heights two years ago, it has been believed to be the front-runner for a new stadium location.

On Friday, the Bears confirmed for the first time that they are focusing all of their efforts on the Arlington Heights site. 

While it’s not yet a done deal, residents and businesses in Arlington Heights are spiking the ball. 

Chicago Bears eyeing Arlington Heights

What we know:

"When the (Arlington Park) track closed a couple years ago we were sad, of course. But then, what could possibly go there to fill those shoes?" said Peter Demarakis, who owns Jimmy D’s District, a bar within a short field goal could kick of the proposed site. "It’s the Chicago Bears. So we’re excited."

The Bears announced a major step forward in their plans to build a new stadium on the 326-acre Arlington Park site, which they purchased in 2023 for $197 million, saying in a statement, "Over the last few months, we have made significant progress with the leaders in Arlington Heights, and look forward to continuing to work with state and local leaders on making a transformative economic development project for the region a reality."

Arlington Heights business leaders who’ve been wooing the Bears are ecstatic. 

"Say whatever you want, I believe 100% that they’re coming to Arlington Heights," said Argie Karafortias, a restauranteur who helped found a group to lure the Bears called Touchdown Arlington. "There is no better location. It’s next to an airport. That’s a huge property. They can do whatever they want to do after they follow the guidance of the village."

The Bears are proposing to build a domed stadium with their own money, anchoring an entertainment district, along with hotels and a Bears Hall of Fame.

What they're saying:

The Chicago Bears released a statement Friday about their ongoing discussions with Arlington Heights officials regarding a potential new stadium in the suburb.

"Over the last few months, we have made significant progress with the leaders in Arlington Heights, and look forward to continuing to work with state and local leaders on making a transformative economic development project for the region a reality."

Arlington Heights Mayor Jim Tinaglia responded with optimism, acknowledging that there is still work to do.

"While much work remains to ensure that the community’s and the team’s goals can be met, we all agree that the discussions are headed in the right direction and we are optimistic for the future of this partnership," Tinaglia said.

Attorney Ernie Rose, who also leads the Touchdown Arlington campaign, said the community is eager for answers as planning ramps up.

"The Village of Arlington Heights has to be ready to get in the weeds. Our residents have been asking for years when we’re going to answer their questions about traffic and how we build the stadium. And now is the time to do this."

Later Friday, the Village of Arlington Heights issued its own statement reinforcing the tone of cautious progress.

"We have a great working relationship with the team, and I have always believed that the former Arlington Park site is the best location for a new NFL stadium centered development for the entire Chicagoland region," stated Mayor Jim Tinaglia. "While much work remains to ensure that the community’s and the team’s goals can be met, we all agree that the discussions are headed in the right direction and we are optimistic for the future of this partnership," village officials said. "The Village will continue to work with all stakeholders and do our due diligence on behalf of our community for this one-of-a-kind opportunity." 

Three local school districts—Districts 15, 211 and 214—also voiced their support in a joint statement.

"We continue to welcome the Chicago Bears' proposed stadium and entertainment district in Arlington Heights. The project has the potential to generate long-term economic growth, increase regional visibility, and create new opportunities for our students and communities. We are excited about the possibility.

"We are committed to working collaboratively with the Village of Arlington Heights, the Chicago Bears, and our elected officials, consistent with the Memorandum of Understanding between the school districts, the Village, and the Bears.

"We believe there is a path forward that supports both world-class development and strong public education, and we look forward to continuing these important conversations."

Back at Jimmy D’s, residents who live just blocks from the proposed stadium say it could create some headaches. But it’s worth it. 

"When they’re building, it will be a little bit of a hassle I guess," said resident Mike Crossin."But I think the end result is going to be good for everybody."

Mayor Brandon Johnson recently spoke with the team’s executive leadership, who said the suburban site is now their top priority, the statement said.

Despite the Bears' focus on Arlington Heights, the City of Chicago remains open to discussions. Johnson has expressed a willingness to work with the team to keep them in the city, stating that the door remains open for negotiations.

The Bears have been exploring multiple options for a new stadium since 2021, including sites within Chicago. The city of Chicago did make an offer to keep the team, the mayor’s office said, but added that "the current climate in Springfield has not allowed for the financial elements necessary to move forward at this point."

What we don't know:

It’s unclear whether the Bears’ shift toward Arlington Heights is final. While the team says that’s their priority, the mayor’s office also emphasized that "the door remains open" in Chicago and that the city will continue working to help facilitate a path forward if the team reconsiders.

No timeline has been announced for construction or final approval at the Arlington Heights site.

What's next:

The Bears have yet to publicly announce detailed plans or renderings for a stadium in Arlington Heights. Any future development would require local approvals, as well as potential state-level financial support.

Meanwhile, Soldier Field remains the team’s home for now.

BearsSportsArlington HeightsNews