Only days before what could be the team\u2019s biggest game of the year, the Chicago Bears are sparking controversy by telling fans they may be considering a move to Northwest Indiana.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe stakes for Illinois are significant: thousands of union jobs, year-round attractions and global events made possible by a fixed roof stadium that would provide long-term revenue for the State,\u201d President and CEO Kevin Williams said in an open letter to fans.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have been told directly by State leadership, our project will not be a priority in 2026, despite the benefits it will bring to Illinois,\u201d Warren added. <\/p>\n
Warren said the team is expanding its search for a new home beyond the Arlington Heights property it has already acquired and is currently on the lookout for locations in the Hoosier State.<\/p>\n
In a statement Wednesday, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker called the announcement \u201ca startling slap in the face\u201d to loyal fans. He restated his opposition to using state money for the construction of the stadium. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe bottom line for any private business development should not come at the full expense of taxpayers,\u201d Pritzker said.<\/p>\n
The Bears have said they will not seek public financing of the stadium itself, but rather for assistance in infrastructure improvements around the site in Arlington Heights, including new roads, utility construction and public transit. <\/p>\n
Pritzker and other state officials have said they are willing to negotiate those bills, along with possibilities of locking in property tax rates for the Bears and other large-scale projects in the state. <\/p>\n
There is still opposition to extensive subsidies for the construction. Illinois State Representative Kam Buckner (D-IL), whose district includes Soldier Field, said he doesn\u2019t disagree with the Bears assessment that \u201cpublic dollars for a new stadium has not been a legislative priority.\u201d<\/p>\n
At the same time, Indiana\u2019s Governor Mike Braun took to social media to say he is ready to work with them to build a new stadium in Northwest Indiana. <\/p>\n
The Chicago Bears recognize Indiana\u2019s pro-business climate, and I am ready to work with them to build a new stadium in Northwest Indiana. <\/p>\n
This move would deliver a major economic boost, create jobs, and bring another premier NFL franchise to the Hoosier State. Let\u2019s get it\u2026 https:\/\/t.co\/bW72dSxS3p<\/a><\/p>\n