BUSINESS

Bears Board Advances Hammond Stadium Project, Officials React

PUBLISHED Jun 5, 2026, 2:13 PM ET

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Hammond, Indiana: The Chicago Bears' board voted Thursday to advance a stadium development project in Hammond, with the organization issuing a statement Friday saying the exact site will be selected later. The move follows a yearslong consideration of alternatives and comes after Illinois lawmakers adjourned this spring without passing legislation aimed at retaining the team in Arlington Heights. Indianapolis and Hammond officials this week publicly welcomed the decision, with Governor Mike Braun and Hammond Mayor Thomas M. McDermott Jr. highlighting expected economic benefits and job creation. The Bears said negotiations and site selection are the next steps; stakeholders noted Illinois' legislative outcome played a role and that formal development agreements and regional infrastructure plans remain pending.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Bears pursued relocation options for years and purchased land in Arlington Heights as part of planning.
Illinois lawmakers adjourned their spring session without passing a bill to incentivize the Bears to stay.
The Bears' Board of Directors met Thursday and voted to advance a stadium project in Hammond.
The team released a statement Friday announcing advancement and saying the exact site will be selected later.
Indiana leaders publicly welcomed the decision; site selection and negotiations remain the immediate next steps.

News Intelligence

The Bears' stadium project could bring economic growth and jobs to Hammond. If you live in the area, keep an eye on the project's progress. It might mean new job opportunities or a boost to local businesses.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 9
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 8

Who Benefited

Indiana state government, Hammond city officials, and local businesses stand to gain increased tax revenue, job creation, and private investment if the Chicago Bears finalize a relocation and stadium construction in Northwest Indiana.

Who Impacted

Illinois localities near Arlington Heights, residents opposed to development, and stakeholders who expected state retention incentives could lose economic activity and face decline in related jobs if the team relocates.

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