Soldier Field, the oldest stadium still utilized by an NFL team, is set to undergo a significant change. In an open letter sent to fans, Kevin Warren, the President and CEO of the Bears, announced plans to construct a new stadium in Arlington Heights, a suburb of Chicago located about 25 miles northwest of Soldier Field.
“We are at a pivotal juncture of the Chicago Bears franchise to build a new stadium, our future home in Arlington Heights, which will require zero state money for construction,” Warren’s letter stated. “This is the year to finalize our stadium plans so we can officially bid to host a Super Bowl as soon as 2031. This is the moment to begin moving toward that future, and we want you with us.”
Soldier Field has been the Bears’ home since 1971 and opened its doors in 1924. It has had a long-standing history as the site where the franchise has played its games. Only the Packers have a longer tenure in one location.
According to Warren, the Bears could buy their way out of the current lease at Soldier Field in 2026 for $84 million. The new stadium’s construction promises to generate over 56,000 jobs in the construction phase and 9,000 permanent positions, with an expected economic impact of $10 billion and $256 million annually in new business and tourism.
Timeline of Development:
- The Bears entered a purchase agreement for the 326-acre Arlington International Racecourse property in 2021 for $197 million, closing the sale in early 2023.
- In early 2024, the Bears briefly explored plans for a domed stadium within Chicago, but refocused efforts back to Arlington Heights in May 2025.
- Most recently, during a preseason game, Warren reaffirmed that Arlington Heights remains the focus of their plans.
