Renderings Reveal Proposed Domed Chicago Bears Stadium in Bronzeville

Introduction to the Proposal

First-time renderings revealed Friday show a potential third site for a new Chicago Bears stadium. The new concepts, released by developer Farpoint, show a domed stadium with a land bridge over DuSable Lake Shore Drive, leading to Lake Michigan, at the former Michael Reese Hospital property in Bronzeville.

The Developer’s Perspective

Farpoint founding principal Scott Goodman told the Chicago Sun Times that his decision to release the images publicly is a Hail Mary, though he has not yet met with the team. "We have proposed an opportunity for the Bears to explore our site, which is viable and where a stadium can fit. And it fits on the South Side of Chicago, bridging the gap to downtown," Goodman said.

Proposed Site and Design

The renderings showcase a futuristic domed stadium that could potentially become the new home of the Chicago Bears.

• New renderings of a domed Bears stadium at the Michael Reece Hospital site (Photo courtesy of Steve Patterson)
• New renderings of a domed Bears stadium at the Michael Reece Hospital site (Photo courtesy of Steve Patterson)
• New renderings of a domed Bears stadium at the Michael Reece Hospital site (Photo courtesy of Steve Patterson)
• New renderings of a domed Bears stadium at the Michael Reece Hospital site (Photo courtesy of Steve Patterson)

Reaction from Local Authorities

Despite no comment from the Bears, Illinois State Representative Kam Buckner, who represents Bronzeville, said the possibility of a domed stadium at the old Michael Reese Hospital site is enticing. "The thought and idea of the Bronzeville Bears is really an exciting one to me," Buckner said.

Strategic Release of Renderings

Sports business expert Marc Ganis spoke with WGN News about what he called a strategic release of the renderings. "The most significant part of this announcement really isn’t the renderings, it’s the fact that they haven’t had any discussions with the Bears," he said. "The audience here may not exactly be Lake Forest but maybe Springfield."

Funding Concerns

Buckner said a Bronzeville stadium wouldn’t necessarily mean taxpayers footing the bill, however. "In Springfield, we are focused on a lot of things right now, and stadium development is not one of them," he said.

Arlington Heights Mayor’s Response

Reaction to the Proposed Site

In response to the proposed Bronzeville site, Arlington Heights Mayor Tom Hayes told WGN News, "If it didn’t come from the Bears, then I don’t put a whole lot of stock in it." Hayes maintained that he is confident that the organization will choose to build on the former Arlington Park site that the Bears purchased in February 2023 for nearly $200 million.

Confidence in Arlington Park Site

"I’m feeling better than I have in the last four years," he added. "We’ve been working on this a long time." This month, the Village and the Bears indicated moving forward with their own traffic and economic impact studies. The step comes after both sides resolved property tax issues in December, despite Bears president and CEO Kevin Warren’s continued focus on his $3.2 billion plan for a new stadium just south of Soldier Field.

Conclusion

The proposed domed stadium in Bronzeville presents an exciting possibility for the Chicago Bears and the community. While there are still many factors to consider, including funding and the team’s ultimate decision, the renderings offer a glimpse into what could be a fantastic new home for the team.

FAQs

• Q: Where is the proposed domed stadium located?
  A: The proposed domed stadium is located at the former Michael Reese Hospital property in Bronzeville.
• Q: Who released the renderings of the proposed stadium?
  A: The renderings were released by developer Farpoint.
• Q: Has the Bears organization commented on the proposed site?
  A: No, the Bears have not commented on the proposed Bronzeville site.
• Q: What is the reaction from local authorities to the proposed site?
  A: Illinois State Representative Kam Buckner finds the idea exciting, while Arlington Heights Mayor Tom Hayes is skeptical, believing the team will choose the Arlington Park site.
• Q: Will taxpayers foot the bill for the stadium?
  A: According to Representative Buckner, a Bronzeville stadium wouldn’t necessarily mean taxpayers footing the bill.