Chicago Bears weigh $3.2 billion stadium proposal

The Chicago Bears face a significant decision regarding their future in the city. The NFL team has been considering leaving Chicago for some time now. Their lease at Soldier Field expires in 2033, and the team is exploring their options. Local developer Fairpoint Development has proposed a new $3.2 billion stadium for the Bears. The proposed stadium would accommodate 75,000 fans and be built on the site of the old Michael Reese Hospital on the city's south side. Fairpoint's plan also includes additional infrastructure developments costing $600 million. This infrastructure would feature a park bridge over Lake Shore Drive and opportunities for nearby development. Fairpoint's principal, Scott Goodman, expressed strong belief in the project, emphasizing its potential to bridge the gap between downtown Chicago and the south side. Despite this proposal, convincing the Bears to move may be challenging. The team has previously rejected the site due to concerns about its size and engineering issues related to commuter train tracks. The Bears have been at Soldier Field since 1971 and still have eight years remaining on their lease at the historic stadium.