The Chicago Bears are itching to leave Soldier Field, however, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has revealed several proposals to convince the team to remain in Chicago instead of leaving for greener pastures in the suburbs.
The Bears have played at Soldier Field for the last 50 years.
In September, the team purchased a 326-acre property in Arlington Park, 30 miles northwest of Soldier Field, for $197.2 million. This led to speculation that they would consider this site for a new stadium and was later confirmed by the team.
“As part of our mutual agreement with the seller of that property, we are not pursuing alternative stadium deals or sites, including renovations to Soldier Field, while we are under contract,” the Bears said in statement. “We have informed the City of Chicago that we intend to honor our contractual commitments as we continue our due diligence and predevelopment activities on the Arlington Heights property. In the meantime, we remain committed to fulfilling our Permit Operating Agreement (POA) at Soldier Field.”
Lightfoot offered three proposals that may entice the Bears to stay.
All of the proposals would involve Soldier Field and adding a dome to the famed stadium. The ideas included rebuilding both end zones with columns to support a dome. Another proposal also calls for transforming Soldier Field into a multipurpose stadium that could host soccer games, concerts and more. It also seeks to increase the seating capacity from 61,5000 to 70,000 and “dramatically expand the opportunity for major sponsorships and naming rights.”
“An improved Soldier Field will deliver a world-class visitor experience,” Lightfoot said in a statement. “Furthermore, any of these proposed renovations will allow Soldier Field to retain its role as an economic engine for Chicago for years to come, as these changes will allow us to keep bringing sports, music and other exciting events to our city.”
