Chicago Construction News staff writer
The Chicago Bears have confirmed plans to build a new domed stadium and mixed-use district in Arlington Heights, a $5-billion private development that team officials say will create more than 56,000 construction jobs and generate $10 billion in economic impact statewide.
In a letter to fans, Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren called the project a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to create a world-class venue and entertainment district, while requiring zero state funding for stadium construction.
The project will redevelop the 326-acre former Arlington International Racecourse site, which the team purchased in 2023 for $197 million. Current plans include:
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A fixed-roof, domed stadium with seating for 65,000–70,000 fans
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Retail, restaurants, housing, hotel, and parkland in a surrounding mixed-use district
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Direct Metra train access, expanded parking, and new infrastructure to improve access and tailgating
Construction of the stadium alone is projected to cost $2 billion, with total site development bringing the investment closer to $5 billion. The project is expected to create 9,000 permanent jobs once operational.
The Bears are working with state and local leaders to secure agreements on property tax certainty and infrastructure contributions. While the team insists no state dollars will fund construction, a proposed “mega-project” bill under consideration in Springfield could support site infrastructure and public improvements.
Warren said the Bears are prepared to break ground as soon as late 2025 if legislative and local approvals are finalized, with a possible opening in 2028. He emphasized the facility would position Chicago to host marquee events such as the Super Bowl, NCAA Final Four, global soccer, and major concerts.
“Arlington Heights is the only site that meets the standard to deliver a transformative stadium and entertainment district,” Warren wrote. “This project will benefit our fans, our region, and the entire state of Illinois.”
The Village of Arlington Heights has already signed a memorandum of understanding with the team, and traffic, infrastructure, and tax studies are underway.
If approved, the stadium would join a short list of privately financed NFL venues and reshape the suburban landscape with one of the largest construction projects in Illinois history.
