The Chicago Bears have made a significant decision to leave Illinois. The Bears’ board of directors voted to advance their plans. However, the new stadium site is still to be determined. It is a significant step as it is the first time the board has voted for a new stadium site.
As per the latest plans, the Bears will most likely leave the state for Indiana just a few days after the end of Illinois’ spring legislative session.
Have a look at what Bears chairman George H. McCaskey and CEO Kevin Warren said in a statement. “We believe a world-class stadium project in Hammond will transform the region, connecting Northwest Indiana and the South Side of Chicago through the Loop and across the neighborhoods and suburbs stretching north of the city.”
You may think that it is a done deal, but it’s not. According to a league source, there is no guarantee that the Bears will leave the state even after the announcement on Friday. According to the source, “Illinois can still get back in the race.” But Indiana is in the lead.
The Illinois governor spokesperson, Matt Hill, emphasized that constant shifting by the Bears has “hindered” development for a new deal.
Here is what Matt Hill said. “The Bears have built a storied legacy in Illinois for over 100 years but have spent the last six years, and especially the last few months, shifting their position on a stadium location. That has hindered their progress.”
“Today appears to be another instance of that, after Illinois leaders have been working with the Bears in good faith. Governor Pritzker has always been clear that he wants the Bears to stay in Illinois and still remains open to a sensible solution that protects taxpayers.”
“The club has kept the stadium committee and league office apprised of all developments.” NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy told ESPN.
The move isn’t final yet; Indiana Gov. Mike Braun issued a statement Friday that he welcomes the Bears to the great state of Indiana.
Here is what he said in a statement. “We look forward to building a partnership as strong as the ’85 Bears defense, creating opportunities and economic growth that will benefit our state and the Bears organization for decades to come.”
“An NFL franchise in Northwest Indiana will be an economic boost to the entire region like we haven’t seen before.”
