Indiana Unanimously Passes Bill to Attract Bears from Chicago
The Chicago Bears are taking significant steps towards a potential new stadium outside Illinois. On Thursday, Indiana lawmakers approved an important amendment to State Bill 27 aimed at facilitating this move. The House Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously, 24-0, in favor of the amendment that could lead to the construction of a domed stadium in Hammond, Indiana.
Details of the Proposed Bill
The newly passed bill proposes the establishment of the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority. This authority would have the power to:
- Issue bonds
- Acquire land
- Finance the construction of the stadium
The Bears have expressed their commitment to conducting necessary due diligence for a world-class stadium in the Wolf Lake area of Hammond.
Statements from Key Officials
In a statement shared with ESPN, the Bears expressed gratitude to Indiana leaders, including Governor Mike Braun and Speaker Huston, for their support. They emphasized that the bill’s passage marks a vital advancement in their stadium planning efforts.
Governor Braun acknowledged the significance of the potential deal on his X account. He noted Indiana’s pro-business environment and stated that the site near Wolf Lake in Hammond has been identified as a promising location. Braun highlighted the strong relationship between the state and the Bears organization, referring to it as a foundation for a public-private partnership.
Context and Current Situation
The Bears are currently seeking to negotiate terms that would alleviate their tax burden if they were to build in Illinois. They previously announced an investment of $2 billion for the new stadium, anticipating approximately $850 million in public funding for essential local infrastructure. This has included improvements to roads and commuter rail services around the 326-acre property they acquired in Arlington Heights, Illinois.
A planned legislative hearing in Illinois was canceled at the request of the Bears, who indicated they needed more time to refine their proposal. Meanwhile, the Bears’ lease at Soldier Field, owned by Chicago, runs through 2033.
As discussions progress, the focus remains on finalizing agreements that will benefit both the Bears and Indiana residents.
