BETTENDORF, Iowa — Two Iowa state senators from the Quad Cities are campaigning to make their region the next home of the Chicago Bears by introducing a bill on Monday aimed at adding NFL stadiums to the state’s Major Economic Growth Attraction (MEGA) program. This initiative targets projects investing $1 billion or more, offering incentives such as tax refunds and credits to boost economic development in Iowa.
Officials Highlight Iowa’s Advantages Over Neighboring States
Senators Kerry Gruenhagen (R – Walcott) and Scott Webster (R – Bettendorf) emphasized Iowa’s more favorable tax environment for both stadium developers and players, suggesting it provides a stronger economic foundation than Illinois. Webster also mentioned that additional incentives could be negotiated beyond the MEGA program’s current offerings, aiming to make the proposal more attractive.
Back home in the Quad Cities, everybody knows that Iowa is the better place to live and work. So we are thinking, well, why not Iowa?
Gruenhagen said.
In Iowa, we’re welcoming you. We’re a business-friendly state. We’re a state that’s looking to grow,
Webster stated.
And at the same time, we make sure that, you know, we get the opportunity to be at the table.
Ideal Location Identified Near TBK Bank Sports Complex
The legislators pointed to the Quad Cities’ central position within the Midwest, reachable within a few hours by car from Chicago, Des Moines, St. Louis, and Nebraska. Both senators see this geographic location as an asset for drawing fans and supporting the team’s regional presence.
The targeted site for the stadium is near the TBK Bank Sports Complex, with Webster calling it a natural fit for the area and playfully referring to the potential team name, “Bettendorf Bears.” Gruenhagen mentioned that a location slightly further west could offer more space for growth and land availability while meeting the project’s requirements.
I think that’s just a natural fit for the area. At the same time, the Bettendorf Bears has a really great name to it,
Webster said.
I do think a little bit further west is a lot more room for growth and a lot more available land. So I think a little bit further west of that would still accomplish those goals,
Gruenhagen noted.
Legislators Move Forward With Support and Subcommittee Formation
Gruenhagen revealed that a legislative subcommittee has already been established to advance the bill. As he continues discussions with other lawmakers, he is optimistic about gaining broader backing and wants the process to progress swiftly.
We are basically the heart of Bears country, and with this bill, we can become the actual Bears country,
Webster said.
The proposal represents a strategic attempt by the Quad Cities’ leaders to capitalize on Iowa’s pro-business climate and central location, which could significantly impact the region’s economy and elevate its profile as a professional sports hub if successful. The coming months will reveal whether the initiative gains momentum within the state legislature and captures interest from the Chicago Bears organization.
