CHICAGO,. -- The Chicago Bears announced plans to build a new fixed-roof stadium and mixed-use development on a 326-acre site in Arlington Heights, moving the team outside the city of Chicago but remaining within Cook County.

The team said the Arlington Heights location is the only site in Cook County that meets its standards for a modern facility. The stadium is designed to host year-round events, including the Super Bowl, Final Four, global soccer matches, concerts, community gatherings, and youth sports.

The Bears emphasized that the move is not about leaving Chicago but expanding. The franchise said more than half of its season-ticket holders live within 25 miles of the Arlington Heights site. The project aims to improve the fan experience with direct Metra train service, more parking, and expanded tailgating opportunities.

Team officials said the project will bring significant economic benefits. Plans call for more than 56,000 construction jobs and 9,000 permanent jobs, with an estimated $10 billion in statewide construction impact and $256 million in annual new business and tourism revenue.

The Bears purchased the Arlington Heights property in 2023 and said no other site within Chicago’s city limits proved viable for the project.