Uncertain Future for Soldier Field Amid Bears’ Stadium Talks

CHICAGO, IL — The future of Soldier Field is in doubt due to the lack of taxpayer funding for the Chicago Bears and a newly announced stadium for the Chicago Fire in the South Loop.

The Chicago Park District, which owns Soldier Field, could face significant losses if both teams move away from the lakefront venue. Soldier Field has been the home of the Chicago Bears since 1971, but it has stood as a lakefront landmark for over a century.

State Representative Kam Buckner expressed concern about the potential loss of the Bears. “Obviously, there are many people like me who would hate to see the Bears leave that space, but there was life in Soldier Field before the Chicago Bears, and if, for some reason, they are no longer there, there will be life afterwards,” he said.

In 2023, Landmark Development proposed adding a dome to Soldier Field, an idea contingent upon the Bears remaining in the stadium, a prospect that seems increasingly unlikely.

Mayor Brandon Johnson stated Tuesday that he does not believe the Bears intend to leave Chicago. “There’s no reason to leave Chicago if you’re a sports team. There isn’t. There’s just too much soul in this city to leave it now,” he said.

Brian Gladstein, Executive Director of Friends of the Parks, echoed a similar sentiment. “I do not believe it is the end of Soldier Field if the Chicago Bears do decide to leave that property,” he noted.

Soldier Field has hosted major concerts and events featuring artists like the Rolling Stones, Beyoncé, and Metallica, indicating its versatility beyond just sports.

Gladstein highlighted the stadium’s value, stating, “It is a building on our lakefront that is still a real gem that can be used in many different ways. I think it provides an opportunity for the city, the park district, and others to think creatively about what can be used there.”

The Chicago Park District released a statement underscoring Soldier Field’s history of hosting significant events, emphasizing that it continues to generate revenue and contribute to Chicago’s cultural scene.

“I’m not giving up hope,” Buckner said. “I do believe that there is still an opportunity for a deal to be made in the city of Chicago so that the Bears can remain in the city.”