The Bears have resumed their research on the possibility of redeveloping Arlington Park.
The Chicago Bears have reignited their plans to potentially redevelop the Arlington Park property, marking a significant chapter in the team’s quest for a new stadium and entertainment complex. This development comes after a series of events, including property acquisitions, tax disputes, and explorations of alternative sites.
Background: Acquisition of Arlington Park
In September 2021, the Bears took a monumental step by signing a $197.2 million purchase and sale agreement with Churchill Downs Inc. for the 326-acre Arlington International Racecourse property in Arlington Heights. This acquisition was seen as a strategic move to secure a location for a state-of-the-art, enclosed stadium capable of hosting major events like the Super Bowl, College Football Playoffs, and the Final Four.
Initial Vision and Community Engagement
By September 2022, the Bears unveiled conceptual plans for the Arlington Park site. The vision encompassed not only a cutting-edge stadium but also a mixed-use entertainment district featuring restaurants, office spaces, hotels, fitness centers, parks, and open spaces. The organization emphasized that while they would not seek public funding for the stadium’s construction, they anticipated collaborating with governmental bodies to secure financial support for the broader development.
Challenges and Alternative Considerations
Despite the ambitious plans, the journey faced hurdles. A notable challenge was a property tax dispute with local school districts, which led the Bears to pause their development studies for Arlington Park. During this period, the team explored other possibilities, including proposals to renovate Soldier Field. Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot even suggested adding a dome to Soldier Field to entice the Bears to remain at their longstanding home.
Resolution and Resumption of Studies
The impasse began to resolve in late 2024 when the Bears reached a tentative agreement with local school districts regarding the property tax assessments for Arlington Park. This memorandum of understanding addressed tax scenarios contingent on whether the stadium development proceeded.
Following this agreement, the Cook County Board of Review certified the assessed value of the property on February 13, 2025, prompting the Bears to resume their evaluative studies for the site’s redevelopment.
Current Developments and Future Prospects
As of March 2025, the Bears have restarted economic impact analyses, traffic evaluations, and are refining their conceptual site plans for Arlington Park. The organization is working closely with Arlington Heights officials, who have engaged their own consultants to review the Bears’ studies. The community remains attentive, with many fans expressing a preference for the Arlington Heights location over other potential sites.
The Bears’ renewed focus on Arlington Park signifies a pivotal moment in their pursuit of a modern stadium complex. While challenges persist, the collaboration between the team, local authorities, and the community will play a crucial role in shaping the future of this landmark development.
