The City of Gary has officially entered the high-stakes competition to become the new home of the Chicago Bears, unveiling a comprehensive strategic roadmap that pledges “the strongest business case in the history of the franchise” backed by fresh legislative momentum in the Indiana Statehouse.
Mayor Eddie Melton and city officials on Friday released the proposal titled “Chosen in 1994. Ready in 2026,” a direct nod to the franchise’s previous flirtation with the city three decades ago. The plan outlines three “plug-and-play” stadium sites and leverages the newly introduced Indiana Senate Bill 27, which would establish a stadium authority to finance and own the facility.
“Back in 1994, the Chicago Bears saw potential in Gary, and we have never forgotten that vote of confidence,” Melton said in a statement. “Thirty years later, Gary is even better positioned. Gary’s proposal gives the Bears the tax certainty and stability that the organization says is key to success.”
The announcement comes as the Bears’ plans for a new stadium in Arlington Heights, Illinois, remain stalled over property tax disputes and a deadlock on public infrastructure funding. In contrast, Gary officials argue their “Ultimate Comeback Story” offers a streamlined path to construction, capitalizing on Indiana’s favorable business climate and proximity to downtown Chicago.
The Three ‘Plug-and-Play’ Sites
The city’s proposal identifies three distinct locations for a potential stadium district, each touted as ready for immediate development:
• Gary West End Entertainment District: A 400-acre site situated along Interstates 80/94 and adjacent to the Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana. This option focuses on synergy with the casino, which is currently the state’s highest-grossing gaming location, to create a dense, mixed-use entertainment hub.
• Buffington Harbor: A 145-acre waterfront parcel located between the Gary/Chicago International Airport and Lake Michigan. This site offers the closest proximity to the Bears’ current home at Soldier Field and sits within an Opportunity Zone and Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district. Officials highlighted the potential for a marina development and robust rail access.
• Miller Beach: The largest of the proposed sites at 760 acres, this location sits along Lake Michigan adjacent to the Indiana Dunes National Park, which draws 3 million annual visitors. The city pitches this site as offering a “stadium experience unlike any other in the NFL,” with scenic natural surroundings.
“A move to Gary isn’t just about a building; it’s about building a dynasty,” Melton said. “Gary is just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago—closer than Arlington Heights—minutes from the Gary Chicago International Airport and uniquely positioned with waterfront views straight to Chicago’s skyline.”
Legislative Muscle: Senate Bill 27
Central to Gary’s pitch is the legislative framework currently advancing in Indianapolis. Senate Bill 27, authored by State Sens. Ryan Mishler and Chris Garten, would establish the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority.
The bill, which the Bears organization recently called a “significant milestone” in their discussions, empowers the authority to acquire land—by eminent domain if necessary—and issue 40-year bonds to finance construction. Under the proposed structure, the authority would own the stadium while entering into a long-term lease (minimum 35 years) with the NFL franchise. The team would retain operating revenue but would be responsible for repairs and operational costs. Crucially, the legislation provides an option for the team to purchase the stadium for the cost of outstanding debt or for $1 once the debt is retired.
This structure is designed to circumvent the hurdles the Bears have faced in Illinois, where the team has requested approximately $855 million in public money for infrastructure improvements—a request that has met resistance in Springfield.
“The media has asked if Gary is serious. Our answer is in the legislation and on the map,” said Gary Common Council President Linda Barnes-Caldwell. “We are not just offering land; we are offering a partner who moves at the speed of business. With the backing of the Statehouse and the specific tools provided by Senate Bill 27, we are ready to break ground while others are still breaking promises.”
Regional Competition and History
The Bears’ interest in Northwest Indiana is not unprecedented. In 1994, the team famously considered a move to a proposed “Planet Park” in Gary before a Lake County tax referendum necessary to fund the project was rejected by voters. The team subsequently renovated Soldier Field.
This time, however, the political winds in Indiana appear more favorable. Governor Mike Braun acknowledged the pursuit during his recent State of the State address, declaring that Indiana is “working hard to bring the Chicago Bears to the Hoosier State.”
“We’ll work hard to do it. Let’s get it across the finish line,” Braun said.
The legislative push coincides with recent site visits by key NFL figures. Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren, Chairman George McCaskey, and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell reportedly toured locations in the region, including the Hard Rock Casino area, earlier this month. The team has also retained the Indianapolis-based law firm Taft Stettinius & Hollister to lobby on its behalf at the Indiana Statehouse.
While the Bears own 326 acres at the former Arlington International Racecourse, Warren has maintained that the team is exploring all options due to the lack of progress in Illinois.
“We cannot wait any longer,” Warren said in a statement cited by Gary officials. “We need clarity, urgency, and a committed path forward.”
Infrastructure and Logistics
Gary’s pitch leans heavily on its logistical assets. The city highlights its connection to the South Shore Commuter Rail Line, which offers direct service to downtown Chicago, as well as the proximity of the Gary Chicago International Airport. The proposal argues that Gary effectively functions as “Chicagoland’s backyard,” offering the benefits of the Chicago market without the regulatory and fiscal challenges of Illinois.
Melton confirmed he received a “very positive” phone call from the Bears organization following the public release of the roadmap.
“I truly believe that this makes good business sense for the McCaskey family,” Melton said. “I want to reassure the fans, as a lifelong Bears fan, that if this organization is able to make a sound business decision, it will benefit the entire organization.”
For more information on the proposal, the city has launched a dedicated website at bearstadiumdistrict.com.