The Chicago Bears have established themselves as the comeback kids this year, and now there are signs they could be making headway in a deal to build a stadium in Arlington Heights.
Conversations between the Bears and Illinois state lawmakers continue as the pressure to get something done builds.
The Bears are now caught in a three-way tug-of-war, with Chicago still working to keep them here while Indiana has intensified it’s courtship. Arlington Heights, meanwhile, is ramping up its efforts to land the franchise there.
The Bears practiced Thursday with a sense of urgency as they look to extend their playoff run. But, there is another sense of urgency as they look for the winning play calling to be made by Springfield. that could clear the way for a new domed stadium in Arlington Heights.
The governor and leading lawmakers have expressed a willingness to help out with infrastructure but made no formal commitments.
Lawmakers do have concerns about the $532 million still owed on the renovations at Soldier Field. Mayor Brandon Johnson is still hoping to keep the Bears in Chicago.
Conversations about the Bears future are on going. Lawmakers return to Springfield next week.