Chicago Bears Announce $5 Billion Stadium Transformation: A Vision to Become the World’s Premier Sports Venue

Chicago Bears Announce $5 Billion Stadium Transformation: A Vision to Become the World’s Premier Sports Venue

**Chicago, IL — May 17, 2025**

The Chicago Bears have unveiled an ambitious $5 billion plan to transform their home stadium into a world-class venue that aims to set new standards in sports and entertainment. The proposed development, known as the Burnham Park Project, envisions a state-of-the-art, enclosed stadium situated just south of Soldier Field on Chicago’s iconic lakefront. This project is designed to enhance the fan experience, revitalize the surrounding area, and solidify Chicago’s status as a global sports destination. ([Bears release plans for stadium project in Chicago](https://www.chicagobears.com/news/bears-release-plans-for-stadium-project-in-chicago?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

**A Bold Vision for the Future**

The centerpiece of the plan is a $3.2 billion domed stadium featuring a translucent roof and expansive glass panels, offering panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. The design incorporates Soldier Field’s historic colonnades, preserving a link to the past while ushering in a new era of modern amenities. The surrounding Museum Campus will undergo a $1.5 billion infrastructure overhaul, including improved transportation access, enhanced public spaces, and the addition of recreational facilities. ([Chicago Bears unveil plan for new domed stadium on the lakefront – CBS Chicago](https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/chicago-bears-new-domed-stadium-plan-lakefront/?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [Chicago Bears unveil new lakefront stadium plans | FOX 32 Chicago](https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/chicago-bears-new-stadium-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

**Economic Impact and Job Creation**

The Bears project that the development will generate over $8 billion in economic impact, including $4.2 billion in direct capital investment. The project is expected to create approximately 43,000 construction jobs and 4,200 permanent positions upon completion. Additionally, the revamped stadium is projected to bring in $36 million annually in tax revenue for the city and $15 million for the state. ([Chicago Bears unveil new lakefront stadium plans | FOX 32 Chicago](https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/chicago-bears-new-stadium-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [Chicago Bears unveil plan for new domed stadium on the lakefront – CBS Chicago](https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/chicago-bears-new-domed-stadium-plan-lakefront/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

**Public-Private Partnership**

The Bears have committed more than $2 billion to the project, with an additional $300 million from an NFL stadium loan. The remaining funds are sought through a combination of public financing, including $900 million from the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority, utilizing existing hotel tax revenues. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has expressed strong support for the project, emphasizing that it will not require new taxes for residents and will provide significant public benefits. ([Bears unveil plans for new domed lakefront stadium. Who will pay for it?](https://wgntv.com/sports/bears-report/bears-unveil-plans-for-new-domed-lakefront-stadium-illinois-leaders-remain-skeptical/?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [Chicago Bears unveil plan for new domed stadium on the lakefront – CBS Chicago](https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/chicago-bears-new-domed-stadium-plan-lakefront/?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [Bears unveil $5B proposal for new domed lakefront stadium – ABC7 Chicago](https://abc7chicago.com/sports/bears-unveil-%245b-proposal-for-new-domed-lakefront-stadium/14728854/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

**Timeline and Future Plans**

Construction is slated to begin in the summer of 2025, with the goal of opening the new stadium by the summer of 2028. During the construction phase, the Bears will continue to play at Soldier Field. The new venue is expected to host a variety of events, including NFL games, concerts, NCAA championships, and other major sporting events, positioning Chicago as a premier location for international sports and entertainment. ([Chicago Bears unveil plan for new domed stadium on the lakefront – CBS Chicago](https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/chicago-bears-new-domed-stadium-plan-lakefront/?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [NFL’s oldest stadium handed lifeline as doubts hit $4.7 billion project after 100 years of historic spectacles](https://talksport.com/nfl/3188258/soldier-field-arlington-heights-chicago-bears-oldest-stadium/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

**Community and Cultural Impact**

Beyond its role as a sports venue, the Burnham Park Project aims to serve as a community hub. Plans include the creation of public parks, athletic fields, a pedestrian mall, and a pavilion, all designed to promote year-round recreational use and community engagement. The development aligns with the historic Burnham Plan, which envisioned an open and accessible lakefront for the public. ([Bears release plans for stadium project in Chicago](https://www.chicagobears.com/news/bears-release-plans-for-stadium-project-in-chicago?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [Chicago Bears unveil plan for new domed stadium on the lakefront – CBS Chicago](https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/chicago-bears-new-domed-stadium-plan-lakefront/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

**Looking Ahead**

As the project moves forward, the Bears are committed to maintaining open dialogue with city officials, community leaders, and residents to ensure that the development meets the needs and expectations of the Chicago community. With its blend of historic preservation, modern design, and community-focused amenities, the Burnham Park Project represents a bold step toward redefining the future of sports venues. ([Bears release plans for stadium project in Chicago](https://www.chicagobears.com/news/bears-release-plans-for-stadium-project-in-chicago?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [Chicago Bears unveil new lakefront stadium plans | FOX 32 Chicago](https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/chicago-bears-new-stadium-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

For more information and updates on the project, visit [StadiumForChicago.com](https://www.stadiumforchicago.com). ([Bears release plans for stadium project in Chicago](https://www.chicagobears.com/news/bears-release-plans-for-stadium-project-in-chicago?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

—

**Upcoming Chicago Bears Games:**

## NFL Schedule

– Miami Dolphins @ Chicago Bears on Saturday, Aug 09, 2025 at 10:00 AM PDT

– Buffalo Bills @ Chicago Bears on Sunday, Aug 17, 2025 at 05:00 PM PDT

– Chicago Bears @ Kansas City Chiefs on Friday, Aug 22, 2025 at 05:20 PM PDT

– Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears on Monday, Sep 08, 2025 at 05:15 PM PDT

– Chicago Bears @ Detroit Lions on Sunday, Sep 14, 2025 at 10:00 AM PDT

– Dallas Cowboys @ Chicago Bears on Sunday, Sep 21, 2025 at 01:25 PM PDT

– Chicago Bears @ Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, Sep 28, 2025 at 01:25 PM PDT

– Chicago Bears @ Washington Commanders on Monday, Oct 13, 2025 at 05:15 PM PDT

– New Orleans Saints @ Chicago Bears on Sunday, Oct 19, 2025 at 10:00 AM PDT

– Chicago Bears @ Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, Oct 26, 2025 at 10:00 AM PDT

– Chicago Bears @ Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, Nov 02, 2025 at 10:00 AM PST

– New York Giants @ Chicago Bears on Sunday, Nov 09, 2025 at 10:00 AM PST

– Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, Nov 16, 2025 at 10:00 AM PST

– Pittsburgh Steelers @ Chicago Bears on Sunday, Nov 23, 2025 at 10:00 AM PST

– Chicago Bears @ Philadelphia Eagles on Friday, Nov 28, 2025 at 12:00 PM PST

– Chicago Bears @ Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec 07, 2025 at 10:00 AM PST

– Cleveland Browns @ Chicago Bears on Sunday, Dec 14, 2025 at 10:00 AM PST

– Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears on Saturday, Dec 20, 2025 at 10:00 AM PST

– Chicago Bears @ San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, Dec 28, 2025 at 05:20 PM PST

—