The Chicago Bears are advancing plans to build a new stadium outside Illinois after Indiana‘s House Ways and Means Committee unanimously passed an amendment to State Bill 27, enabling construction of a domed stadium in Hammond near Wolf Lake. The 24-0 vote establishes the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, granting it authority to issue bonds, acquire property, and fund the venue’s development through a public-private partnership.
Bears Express Appreciation for Legislative Backing
The Bears described the amendment’s approval as the most significant progress in their stadium efforts. The team acknowledged the support of Governor Mike Braun, Speaker Huston, Senator Mishler, and the Indiana General Assembly for forming a structured framework to develop a world-class stadium serving fans across Chicagoland and surrounding regions. Follow-up steps will include detailed site assessments to advance plans for an elite NFL arena.
Strategic Site Selected near Wolf Lake in Hammond
The target location lies along Interstate 90, bordering Chicago’s southeast neighborhoods and Hammond, Indiana, approximately 25 minutes from the Bears’ current Soldier Field home. Indiana Governor Mike Braun highlighted the state’s business-friendly climate and collaboration among local officials, legislators, and the Bears as key factors enabling a public-private approach that benefits taxpayers while delivering a premium sports facility.
“Indiana is open for business, and our pro-growth environment continues to attract major opportunities like this partnership with the Chicago Bears. We’ve identified a promising site near Wolf Lake in Hammond and established a broad framework for negotiating a final deal. If…” — Governor Mike Braun (@GovBraun)
Illinois Stadium Project Put on Hold
Prior to shifting attention to Indiana, the Bears sought $850 million in public funding for infrastructure around a 326-acre site in Arlington Heights, Illinois. However, Illinois House hearings on that proposal were canceled, leaving the stadium legislation uncertain. A spokesperson for Governor J.B. Pritzker stated that Illinois remained prepared to move forward, but the Bears requested more time to refine their plans, suggesting the team is carefully weighing its options before finalizing the stadium location.
The potential move sparked strong reactions among Chicago fans, with widespread and intense responses expected to persist in the coming days.
Implications of the Stadium Choice for the Bears and Region
The decision to pursue a stadium in Indiana represents a significant shift for the Chicago Bears, signaling regional economic and sports impacts created by relocating a major NFL venue. By situating the stadium near the Illinois-Indiana border, the Bears aim to maintain access to their fanbase while benefiting from Indiana’s collaborative environment and financial framework. The next phase will involve detailed site work and negotiations to bring the project to fruition, potentially transforming the area around Wolf Lake into a key sports destination.
Indiana is open for business, and our pro-growth environment continues to attract major opportunities like this partnership with the Chicago Bears. We’ve identified a promising site near Wolf Lake in Hammond and established a broad framework for negotiating a final deal. If…
— Governor Mike Braun (@GovBraun) February 19, 2026
