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Bears make massive stadium decision with Hammond vote now official

Chicago's franchise has finally chosen a direction in its years-long search for a new home.
ByCasey McAleer|
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Jan 31, 2022; Lake Forest, IL, USA; Chicago Bears Chairman George McCaskey speaks at a Press Conference to introduce new Chicago Bears-Head Coach Matt Eberflus and General Manager Ryan Poles Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Jan 31, 2022; Lake Forest, IL, USA; Chicago Bears Chairman George McCaskey speaks at a Press Conference to introduce new Chicago Bears-Head Coach Matt Eberflus and General Manager Ryan Poles Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images | David Banks-Imagn Images

After what seems like years of debate, the Bears have finally made a decision on the location of their new facility plans. Much to the dismay of lifelong Bears fans, they've elected to move to Hammond Indiana. The Bears officially announced that their Board of Directors voted to advance the stadiums development through a statement on X.com.

Bears officially commit to Hammond as preferred direction

The announcement was clear that a precise location hadn't been yet chosen, but this marks a large step forward in the process. The Bears are contracted with Soldier Field at least until 2033, however the team isn't as tied down as it would seem. The buyout sits at an estimated $90 million.

Given the pace that the Bears have rolled out this decision making process, and all of the foothills the team has needed to pass, it's likely that the Bears remain at Soldier field through the current contract. The new stadium site will need to be selected first, and then construction is likely to take years. Given the size of the project the Bears have in mind to rival Sofi Stadium, it's possible that this could even take over a decade.

This decision is likely to divide Bears fans. Many people view a move to Indiana as a betrayal to not only the city of Chicago and the team's loyal fans, but they see it as a disgrace to the history that has held this team up for over a century. Indiana may be around the corner from the city, but it leaves a bad taste in the mouths of many.

On the other hand, many people don't mind this decision. Hammond is closer to Soldier Field than Arlington Heights is, and the commute is simpler. Many teams have elected this path in the past. Both New York teams play in New Jersey.

The Bears still have a long road ahead before a new stadium becomes reality. However, Friday's announcement provided the clearest indication yet that the franchise believes its future lies in Hammond.

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