Arlington Heights officials to make push to keep Chicago Bears in Illinois as teams looks to build stadium
Share and Follow

The Chicago Bears are preparing for their upcoming showdown with the Rams this Sunday, but where they might call home in the future remains uncertain.

The team is successfully sparking a competitive atmosphere between Illinois and Indiana as both states vie for the Bears’ allegiance.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

On Friday morning, a significant news conference is scheduled in Arlington Heights to address this ongoing situation.

Dubbed “Keep the Bears in Illinois,” the conference aims to rally support among state legislators for a substantial development bill. This legislation would facilitate major projects across Illinois, including the proposed Bears’ development at Arlington Park.

The anticipated cost for infrastructure enhancements surrounding a potential new stadium is around $855 million, and the Bears are reportedly seeking financial support from the state to cover these expenses.

The governor and leading lawmakers have expressed a willingness to help out with infrastructure, but have made no formal commitments.

“I hope that this can be a year where we can have a conversation, it’s open, honest and transparent about how to move forward. And the Bears know now that the ball is in their court,” state Rep. Kam Buckner said.

Friday’s news conference comes after NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell toured the Arlington Heights site in addition to spending time in Northwest Indiana.

During his State of the State address Wednesday night, Indiana Governor Mike Braun said he would do whatever he can to bring the Bears across state lines as a new senate bill is proposed in the state creating a possible framework for a Bears move.

Of course, Mayor Brandon Johnson is also maintaining his desire to keep the Bears here at Soldier Field in Chicago.

Copyright © 2026 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Sharon Stone slams 'kids' who said stole a seat at awards show

Sharon Stone Calls Out Seat Stealing Incident at Awards Show

In a fiery address that has taken social media by storm, Sharon…
Trump's pick for Iceland ambassador apologizes for joking about Arctic nation becoming 52nd state

Trump’s Iceland Ambassador Nominee Apologizes for Controversial 52nd State Joke

Former Representative Billy Long, who was selected by former President Donald Trump…
Nick Reiner went off rails before parents' murders 'after meds change'

Medication Change Linked to Nick Reiner’s Troubling Behavior Before Parents’ Tragic Deaths

Nick Reiner, son of renowned director Rob Reiner, had been under a…
Ellen Greenberg's parents reveal last call with daughter's fiancé

Ellen Greenberg’s Parents Share Details from Final Phone Call with Her Fiancé

Sandee Greenberg doesn’t recall the precise day she last conversed with her…
Manhattan, IL crash today: Students on school bus OK after deadly crash on Manhattan-Monee Road near School House, Scheer

Tragic Collision on Manhattan-Monee Road: School Bus Students Safe Amid Fatal Accident

A tragic incident unfolded in Manhattan, Illinois, on Thursday morning, as law…
Urgent questions Timothy Busfield's wife Melissa Gilbert must answer

Melissa Gilbert Faces Pressing Questions About Her Life with Timothy Busfield

He insists on his innocence. Actor and director Timothy Busfield, 68, has…
Ilya Sorokin's prowess powers Islanders to strong road win over Oilers

Ilya Sorokin’s Stellar Performance Propels Islanders to Convincing Victory Against Oilers on the Road

EDMONTON, Alberta — Ilya Sorokin delivered a performance worthy of a Vezina…
Karoline Leavitt attacks journalist after question about ICE shooting

Karoline Leavitt Criticizes Journalist Following Heated Exchange Over ICE Shooting Inquiry

Karoline Leavitt has launched a scathing critique against a British journalist who…