Add six new major club and experiential areas, none of which exist in Soldier Field as it stands today. Daley said the renovation would be financed with $175 million from the Bears, $160 million in taxes on hotel stays and restaurant meals in Chicago, and $60 million from Soldier Field revenue bonds. The base has 38 barracks buildings with six under renovation, Gardner said. As part of a nearly $400 million reconstruction project, the majority of Soldier Field was demolished with the exception of the exterior. The new Soldier Field broke ground on January 19, 2002. In just 20 months, the shortest construction time for a modern day stadium on record, the Project was completed. But the Bears have a lease at Soldier Field through 2033. The initial announcement regarding a Chicago stadium project had many fans wondering if a potential move to Arlington Heights an always popular rumor given Arlington International Racecourse is for sale was about to ramp up. Dramatically expand the opportunity for major sponsorships and naming rights. However, the math simply doesn't add up. Soldier Field Gets Glitzy Overhaul (And Much More Food) Any of these options has enormous potential to spur economic growth for Chicago and contribute to making the Museum Campus a global, year-round destination.. Please check your email for a confirmation. The dome would also turn the stadium into an enclosed, climate-controlled facility for conventions and other events, such as college basketballs Final Four tournament. In May, construction will finish on another building and allow the number of soldiers living doubled up to drop to about 50. (Didn't realize the stadium thing was so sensitive there! The company that previously owned the property, Churchill Downs,announced on Wednesday that the $197.2 million sale isn't expected to be finalized until late 2022 or early 2023. "And like most Bears fans, we want the organization to focus on putting a winning team on the field, beating the Packers finally and being relevant past October. Arlington Heights has an entire city budget of under $200 million with sky high property taxes to begin with. Last year, Edgar and McCaskey rejected Daleys proposal to renovate the stadium. July 25, 2022 / 9:15 PM Frankly speaking, the current Soldier Field is an architectural mistake. A roof on Soldier Field may be possible, but cost and It sounds like the Bears will be welcoming fans back at Soldier Field in full capacity for the 2021 season, as theyre already one of 30 teams thathave approval for full capacity stadiums to begin the preseason. Despite the lack of details on the deal and whether it would be palatable to taxpayers, Lightfoot said the Bears would be foolish not to consider the offer and hinted the same deal is on the table for any other team looking to move. It might happen at a used car lot. "As part of our mutual agreement with the seller of that property, we are not pursuing alternative stadium deals or sites, including renovations to Soldier Field, while we are under contract. One big downside to Soldier Field is that it's the smallest stadium in the NFL. Back in June, she said the bid for the Arlington land was just a negotiation tactic to get the city to help with the cost of any potential renovations at Soldier Field. Though the capacity has greatly varied over time, its current layout seats only 61,500, making it the smallest stadium in the NFL. Under the first option, the stadium would be enclosed by rebuilding both ends of the stadium with columns that can support a dome. Adding new amenities to Soldier Field for private events and public use will support the Museum Campus and the entire city of Chicago, and drive vital revenue and job growth for our citys small and mid-size business community.. Add six new major club and experiential areas. She didnt mention that the Bears would own an Arlington Heights facility but would be a tenant of the Chicago Park District at Soldier Field. This expert team has done an impressive job bringing these three options to life, said Martin Cabrera, CEO of Cabrera Capital. In 1994, Smith was fined $8,000 for fighting with Tampa Bays Tyji Armstrong. Although the Bears have been looking into making renovations at Soldier Field, they likely came to the conclusion that it was cost prohibitive unless the city CHICAGO Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot today announced proposals for renovations of Soldier Field, a crown jewel of both Chicago and our celebrated lakefront Museum Campus. Why the Soldier Field Renovations Were a Mistake for the During the reconstruction of Soldier Field, preparations in Champaign and Bourbonnais continue as they get ready to play host to the Bears. Missing Crain's in print? The main reason behind Mayor Emanuel's desire to renovate is likely his desire to bid for the 2019 Super Bowl. The mayor emphasized that options one and two "make Soldier Field a top tier NFL stadium with tremendous opportunity for the Bears to fulfill their vision.". The second would require both end zones to be rebuilt with columns to make the stadium dome-ready. Learn more atLearn more at Chicago.gov/COVIDVax. Under the first option, the stadium would be enclosed by rebuilding both ends of the stadium with columns that can support a dome. She asserts that the team would be at least $1 billion to $1.5 billion better off if it stayed at Soldier Field rather than building a new facility. Soldier Field was built in 1924, and was originally named Municipal Grant Park Stadium. The Working Group was chaired by Richard Price, Executive Chairman of Mesirow. But oddly, it calls for adding only seven new suites, a big money-maker at other sports arenas around the country. We must enhance the fan experience, and that's precisely what we aim to do," Lightfoot said at a news conference Monday afternoon at Soldier Field. In the meantime, we remain committed to fulfilling our Permit Operating Agreement (POA) at Soldier Field. Why is Frank McCourt really pushing this? But, the Chicago Bears aren't convinced. Single-game tickets then went on sale two weeks ago following the schedule release. Chicago Unveils 3 Proposed Renovations for Soldier Field. You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times. In Chicago, meanwhile, two architects who worked on Soldier Fields $660 million renovation bankrolled by bonds that wont be fully repaid until 2032 said only modest expansion is possible at the 61,500-seat stadium, the NFLs smallest. Phase two: Decide to bid for a Super Bowl in five years, while adding only half of the seats needed to reach the minimum requirements. With the team's purchase agreement now in place, Lightfoot might start taking the Bears' threat to leave more seriously, but in reality, it's probably too late for that. But should they choose to leave, Soldier Field will continue to be a premier multipurpose venue that is able to host an array of important and exciting events.". They also had two sideboards posted along the outside of the stadium by the statues of Halas and Payton. I am excited to share these proposals for Soldier Field, said Richard S. Price, Executive Chairman of Mesirow. Of course, that's not exactly true. The centerpiece is a dome, made of steel and translucent plastic, that would slide over the top of the grass playing field in bad weather. Everybody knows the sinking feeling you get after you shake hands on a deal, then realize you've been snookered. A view inside Soldier Field before demolition began in 2002 But when it came time to remodel Soldier Field in the early 2000s, Bey said there was never a serious Soldier Field remains an incredible asset for City residents and visitors. According to the mayor's office, the plans also would increase the number of luxury suites from 133 to 140; add six new club areas; quadruple concessions areas from 50,000 to 200,000 square feet; expand the opportunity for stadium naming rights and other sponsorships, and create more flexible event space, with up to 4 separate venues, with capacity ranging from 5,000 to 60,000 seats. Arlington Park owner expects 'world-class' Bears stadium, Mayor Lightfoot explores a stunning change to Soldier Field, At Harley-Davidson, a repo shortage is hitting the bottom line, Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson names more appointees to transition subcommittees, Booth, Kellogg top the U.S. News ranking of best MBA programs, Big Fulton Market apartment project moves forward with $125 million loan, New lawsuit over 'brazen' moves in Maple & Ash restaurant feud. A $300-million (minimum) gondola to Dodger Stadium? Each year, Soldier Field hosts football games, soccer matches, major concerts, international sporting events, and dozens of other events. These proposals stem from considerations and recommendations made by the Mayors Museum Campus Working Group. Soldier Field renovation - Chicago Tribune Rendering of a proposal to renovate Soldier Field with a dome and thousands of new seats. NFL owners approve two Soldier Field renovation projects The structure itself isn't the only problem with the current state of Soldier Field. Having opened in 1924, with renovations taking place in 2003, Soldier Field is the home of the Chicago Bears of the National Football League and Chicago Fire FC of Major League Soccer. Lightfooot said she hopes the Bears will stay. Proceeds from the $3 admission tax would go to help pay off debt incurred to fund renovations of Soldier Field two decades ago. CHICAGO (CBS) -- As the Chicago Bears consider leaving the city for a new stadium in Arlington Heights, Mayor Lori Lightfoot and Chicago Park District officials on Monday unveiled three options for renovating Soldier Field, including a possible dome over the lakefront arena. Seriously? Additional measures to provide new amenities include: Photo renderings of proposed options can be found here, These proposed renovations would vastly improve the visitor experience for hundreds of thousands of Chicagoans and tourists alike, said Jack Lavin, President and CEO of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce and member of the Museum Campus Working Group. Full list of Mr. Irrelevants in NFL draft history: Is Brock Purdy already the best final pick? Click below to see everything we have to offer. Despite the fact that the Bears have one foot out the door at Soldier Field, Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot wrote on Tuesday night that she is committed to keeping the Bears in her city. The Arlington Park site, which is 30 miles northwest of Soldier Field, could be the site of a new stadium for the Bears in the future. Many options were explored for the Bears, including a brand new stadium in suburban Arlington Heights as well as a new stadium just to the south side of Chicago Stadium on the city's West Side. In February, Edgar proposed a $465-million project that would add a 72,000-seat domed stadium and expand McCormick Place. Daley previewed his plan for Gov. May 27, 2021 7:20 am CT On Wednesday, NFL owners approved a couple of Soldier Field renovation projects for the Chicago Bears. Lightfoot said she last talked to Bears chairman George McCaskey two weeks ago and told him about these plans, though she did not say anything about his level of interest. Sure, the stadium is a historic landmark. renovations Now, whether hes able to play the whole game or not remains to be seen.. The Bears will be given time to kick the tires on the citys proposal, but there is no deadline, she said. The mayor's office estimated the costs of the three options would range from $900 million to $2.2 billion. Increase the number of traditional suites from 133 to 140. The story of the Cowboys scout and prospect son Dallas just drafted, Legacy pick: Cardinals take great-great-nephew of team's first-ever draft pick, From trade request to 5-year extension: Answering the biggest questions about Lamar Jackson's new deal, Bears put in bid to buy Arlington Int'l Racecourse, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Team president Ted Phillips said the move was all about ensuring a strong future for the Bears. Mayor Emanuel and the Bears need to work together to make Soldier the best possible stadium for both the fans and team as well as the city as a whole. And while the city has said that it intends to fight to keep the Bears at Soldier Field, the Bears continue to moved forward in purchasing the site of the former Arlington Rack Track, telling the Daily Herald earlier this month that that "the only potential project the Chicago Bears are exploring for a new stadium development is Arlington Park.". Proceeds from the $3 admission tax would go to help pay off debt incurred to fund renovations of Soldier Field two decades ago. Believe it or not, the stadium actually lost 5,000 seats when the Bears and Chicago renovated the landmark in 2003. Chicago, IL 60601 PHOTOS: Soldier Field through the years - WGN-TV Rebuild both endzones with columns to make the stadium dome ready. Expand the opportunity for major sponsorships and naming rights. 2004-2023 CBS Interactive. No timetable was set for the plan; construction would take three years during off-seasons. Quadruple the food and beverage square footage from 50,000 sq ft to 200,000 sq ft. Add secondary club and activation areas to as many as 20. If you're going to do something, do it right the first time. Landmark Development released a Soldier Field renovation proposal video, showcasing a new dome. According to a statement released by the team earlier this month, the Arlington Park site is the only site the team is considering for a new stadium. Spend a semester or a school year abroad with a host family and attend high school classes. News. Improve your language skills? Option 2: As part of a Greg Abbott to Stop Bussing Migrants to Chicago. Chicagoans are still on the hook for $640 million for Soldier Field renovations from 2002. The Chicago Bears have been playing at Soldier Field since 1971, but they might not be playing there much longer. Smith was fined $5,000 for a hit on Kansas City running back Greg Hill on Aug. 22. 2022 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. Im more than willing to take a look at his proposal and see if its doable and hes indicated hes willing to take a look at other options too, Edgar said. In the afternoon, there will be activities and excursions to practice language skills. Proposed Soldier Field renovations with renderings The Bears The time to travel and study abroad is now! Who would pay for it? After the event, Lightfoot dodged questions from reporters seeking more details on how the three renovations would be financed and who would pay for them, and when the city would make a decision on which option would be selected. Quadruple the food and beverage square footage from 50,000 square feet to 200,000 square feet. "An improved Soldier Field will deliver a world-class visitor experience," Lightfoot said in a statement. 2023 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. Soldier Field While clearly some members of (Lightfoots) Reimagining the Lakefront Working Group worked closely with the mayor to devise this plan, Friends of the Parks was not invited to be part of any vetting of actual plans for a dome at any time, even though it was a member of the group, Juanita Irizarry said. Option 1: Fully enclose the stadium by rebuilding both endzones with columns that can support a dome structure. Friends of the Parks perspective on a possible dome remains the same. renovations "Not surprisingly, we are doing what we believe is making a compelling case for the Chicago Bears to stay in Chicago. CBS Sports is a registered trademark of CBS Broadcasting Inc. Commissioner.com is a registered trademark of CBS Interactive Inc. site: media | arena: nfl | pageType: stories | Want to discover the world? 6-keys: media/spln/nfl/reg/free/stories, at The city will launch a feasibility study to evaluate financing options, but Lightfoot wouldnt commit to any artificial timeline on when that study would conclude. Vaccines protect you and the people around you, reducing the spread of COVID-19. And now, as Chicagoans may be coming to realize, it can also happen when your mayor signs off on a massive public subsidy to rebuild a stadium on the Rehab foes win court round; city warns of delays. "As part of our mutual agreement with the seller of that property, we are not pursuing alternative stadium deals or sites, including renovations to Soldier Field, while we are under contract," the Bears said in a statement. How Palm Springs ran out Black and Latino families to build a fantasy for rich, white people, 17 SoCal hiking trails that are blooming with wildflowers (but probably not for long! Last year he was fined $12,000 for a hit on St. Louis quarterback Chris Miller. Were counting on his playing in this game, Coach George Seifert said. An improved Soldier Field will deliver a world-class visitor experience, said Mayor Lightfoot. Three concepts for Soldier Field renovations. "Much work remains to be completed, including working closely with the Village of Arlington Heights and surrounding communities, before we can close on this transaction," Phillips said in a statement. Over several months, the Athletic Facilities subgroup met with experts to understand the current market, national and international competition from other event venues, and what Soldier Field needs to become a best-in-class visitor experience. In September, the Bears took a step toward leaving historic Soldier Field when they signed a $197.2 million purchase and sale agreement with Churchill Downs Inc. for the 326-acre Arlington Park property in suburban Arlington Heights after the track, which has hosted thoroughbred racing since 1927, was put up for sale. Soldier Field | History, Events, Renovation, & Facts The Chicago Bears have been trying to leave Soldier Field for 50 years. According to published reports, the Bears' lease at Soldier Field runs through 2033, but would require them to pay the city only $84 million in damages if they were to break their lease in 2026, which would likely be the earliest they could expect to build and move into a new stadium in Arlington Heights. Originally constructed in 1924, Soldier Field has been home to the Bears since 1971. Make international friendships? Please enter valid email address to continue. The Bears lease at Soldier Field expires after the 1999 season, and McCaskey has threatened to leave Chicago after that if the aging stadium isnt replaced. They want a tier one stadium environment to maximize revenues, and we agree that we are going to keep making the case to the Bears, the NFL and public that a revitalized Soldier Field makes the most economic sense for that storied franchise," Lightfoot said during an address Monday. https://t.co/7pm7mLtCOc. They might be closer than ever. If youve ever dreamed of living and studying abroad or hosting a student, dont let anything stand in your way. The 2002 renovation of Soldier Field cost $660 million, $432 million of which was funded by the city's hotel tax, and the bonds issued to finance that project are still being paid off. In an email, the head of Friends of the Parks, a civic group that sued and ended up blocking the proposed Lucas Museum just south of Soldier Field, said legal action (again) by her organization again is on the table. The Bears had seven digital video screens installed inside the stadium, including high-definition scoreboards in each end zone, in 2015.