A render of Halas Harbor, a proposed lakefront stadium and entertainment district for the Chicago Bears in Portage. Graphic from Halas Harbor.
News Release
PORTAGE — Amid the Chicago Bears’ search for a new home venue, the northwest Indiana town of Portage has thrown its hat into the ring with a privately financed venture.
Leaders said the shovel-ready development, which would include both a stadium and lakefront entertainment district, would rise on nearly 300 acres west of SR 249 and north of SR 20, with rail access, marina connectivity and transportation planning designed to limit neighborhood traffic.
A map showing the location of the proposed Halas Harbor development in Portage, which officials say would be 45 minutes from the current Bears stadium by road, 55 minutes by rail, and 85 minutes by water. Graphic from Halas Harbor.
The project, known as Halas Harbor, envisions a year-round destination featuring retail, dining, residential towers, hospitality venues and infrastructure capable of hosting major events. Financing the $5 billion proposal would rely on advance ticket revenue from concerts and other non-football events rather than taxpayer funding or public bonds. The stadium initially would fall under local redevelopment ownership, with potential negotiations involving state or team control.
The announcement comes as the Bears continue a long-running search for a replacement to their current Illinois home, following stalled plans in Arlington Heights and a broadened regional review that includes northwest Indiana. Competing interest has emerged from Hammond and Gary, while Illinois leaders pursue efforts to retain the team.
State lawmakers in Indiana are advancing legislation to create a regional stadium authority able to issue bonds, acquire land and negotiate leases, a move supporters say strengthens the state’s bid.
Portage officials indicated construction could begin as early as June 2026 if the Bears choose the site.