The Chicago Bears, a team with a storied history, have been renting their home stadium since the days of Warren G. Harding’s presidency. They began as tenants at Wrigley Field, sharing the space with the Cubs for 50 seasons. In 1971, they moved to Soldier Field, where they’ve remained through thick and thin, except for a temporary move in 2002 during renovations.
Soldier Field, with its stunning lakeside views and historic architecture, has its downsides. The terms of the lease are challenging, and the Bears have outgrown their space in the league’s smallest and oldest stadium. Frustrated, they’re now considering a new home—potentially in Hammond, Indiana.
Recently, Indiana lawmakers made headlines by approving a measure that would pave the way for the Bears to relocate to Hammond. The news hasn’t been well-received by everyone. A poll by Axios revealed that 74% of fans would feel betrayed if the team leaves Chicago. Many former players and analysts criticized the potential move as a prioritization of profit over community connection.
Hammond may surprise you. While it might seem far away, it’s just a short drive from Chicago. For many residents of the city’s south suburbs, it serves as a convenient escape from Illinois’ rising costs. Plus, Hammond’s history has deep roots with Chicago; it’s been part of the “greater Chicagoland” area for years, even housing Chicago radio stations.
But what about the Bears’ past? Chicago once boasted two NFL teams. The Chicago Cardinals, unable to draw enough fans, relocated to St. Louis in the 1960s. Unlike them, the Bears—originating from Decatur—are still fighting to stay connected to their birthplace.
Hammond offers opportunities that Arlington Heights couldn’t match. The Bears hoped to build a luxurious new stadium there, but hurdles in funding have stalled the process. In contrast, the Indiana proposal aims to create a stadium authority, which could simplify financing.
Historically, cities across the U.S. have spent billions on sports venues, often with mixed results. According to a report from the University of Chicago, taxpayers have shelled out over $33 billion between 1970 and 2020 for stadium construction in the U.S. This raises important questions about prioritizing public money for sports.
While Hammond offers potential growth, the Bears’ move wouldn’t be without consequences for their fan base. Regular fans in Arlington Heights would face longer commutes, and the Illinois government is still hopeful about keeping the Bears in state.
As the Bears consider their future, they stand at a crossroads. Their decision won’t just impact their team; it could reshape community ties and economic conditions in both Chicago and Hammond. Mayor Brandon Johnson insists that the Bears belong in Chicago, emphasizing the historical and emotional connections.
The Bears’ future might be uncertain, but one thing is clear: Chicago will always be a part of their legacy, no matter where they play next.
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