Governor Pritzker Doubts Bears Stadium Deal Will Materialize This Fall
- Governor J.B. Pritzker expressed skepticism regarding the completion of a deal for a new Bears stadium this fall.
- He noted that there are currently no acceptable proposals before the legislature.
- This situation could lead to prolonged discussions about the stadium's location and funding.
CHICAGO (CBS) — Governor JB Pritzker has expressed skepticism regarding the Chicago Bears' proposal for a taxpayer-funded stadium, reiterating his stance that the plan is unlikely to gain approval. The Bears recently revealed ambitious plans for a multibillion-dollar domed stadium on the lakefront, just south of Soldier Field, which includes a request for $900 million in public financing for upfront costs and an additional $1.5 billion for surrounding infrastructure improvements. In a statement, Pritzker labeled the Bears' proposal a "nonstarter," emphasizing that the team has not presented any new plans that would garner support from the Illinois General Assembly. He indicated that even if a proposal were submitted, the chances of it passing during the fall veto session are slim. "There isn't much change," Pritzker noted, highlighting the lack of a viable proposal that would be acceptable to legislative leaders. The governor's comments come after a private meeting last month with Bears president and CEO Kevin Warren, which Pritzker described as "cordial." However, he refrained from disclosing specific details about their discussions. The Bears' ambitious vision for a new stadium continues to face significant political and financial obstacles, leaving the future of the project uncertain as the team seeks public support for its funding needs.