The Chicago Bears have unveiled a new proposal for a stadium to replace Soldier Field along Chicago’s lakefront, garnering support from the city’s mayor. However, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker remains unconvinced.
Governor Pritzker voiced his skepticism today, questioning why taxpayers should be responsible for a significant portion of the project’s costs.
“I remain skeptical about this proposal, and I wonder whether it’s a good deal for the taxpayers,” stated Pritzker via the Chicago Tribune. “There are a lot of priorities that the state has, and I’m not sure that this is among the highest priorities for taxpayers.”
Illinois governor is "skeptical" the Bears' stadium plan is a good deal for taxpayers. https://t.co/GrMgZwcR3Q
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) April 24, 2024
The Bears are seeking taxpayer funding for roughly half of the $4.6 billion projected costs, encompassing both the stadium and infrastructure upgrades.
Governor Pritzker referenced the recent situation with the Kansas City Chiefs, where taxpayers declined to fund stadium upgrades, indicating a shift in public sentiment toward sports teams shouldering their own financial burdens. Additionally, Pritzker expressed doubts about a similar proposal from the Chicago White Sox regarding a new ballpark.
“Owners of these private businesses need to put a lot more forward to have their dreams fulfilled and not just rely on the taxpayers of Illinois to have that happen for them,” remarked Pritzker.
The Bears are pushing for a prompt decision to kickstart construction. However, it appears they face an uphill battle in gaining state approval for their plan.
