UMVA has learned that the Chicago Bears, a beloved NFL franchise and iconic part of Chicago's identity, has taken a major step toward leaving Illinois after years of failed negotiations and stalled plans.
The team's Board of Directors voted to advance plans for a new stadium development in Hammond, Indiana, a move that could mark the team's first departure from Illinois in its 106-year history.
This decision comes on the heels of Illinois lawmakers adjourning their legislative session without approving incentives that the team said were necessary to keep the project in-state, sparking concerns about the state's business-friendly environment.
Bears leadership had emphasized that tax certainty and infrastructure commitments were crucial to moving forward with a massive stadium investment, but it appears that Illinois was unable to meet these demands.
In a statement, Bears Chairman George McCaskey and President Kevin Warren declared that a "world-class stadium project" in Hammond could transform the region and connect Northwest Indiana with Chicago's South Side and surrounding communities.
The Bears' potential departure has sparked criticism from former Illinois Governor, who blasted the current Governor for "gubernatorial malpractice" and accused him of failing to keep the team in-state.
The criticism centered on Illinois' tax burden and the state's priorities, with some arguing that it has driven away major employers like Boeing and Tyson Foods, and now the Bears.
In contrast, Indiana has rolled out the welcome mat, passing legislation to help finance the project and offering infrastructure advantages, with Governor Mike Braun revealing that the Bears had reached out months ago after being rebuffed by Illinois leaders.
The result is a humiliating loss for Illinois, with the Bears joining other businesses and residents in voting with their feet and heading for more business-friendly territory.
The move marks a significant blow to Chicago and Illinois, with many left wondering what could have been done to keep the team in-state, and what the future holds for the region.
