South Side Gridiron: Proposed Chicago Bears Stadium
The proposed Chicago Bears Stadium in Bronzeville has no official title yet. Still, South Side Gridiron seems fitting because of the vitality and value developing in Chicago’s south side communities.
It may be a bold plan to keep the team in Chicago, but even if it does not come to fruition, just considering the South Side’s Michael Reese Hospital site in Bronzeville will be another positive boost for the South Side. Here’s what we know:
- Design: The stadium is envisioned as a domed, 75,000-seat facility with a striking design. It includes a land bridge over DuSable Lake Shore Drive, connecting the stadium to Lake Michigan and creating a park-like atmosphere.
- Cost: The project is estimated at $3.2 billion, with private financing for the stadium. However, an additional $600 million in public funding is sought for infrastructure improvements.
- Mixed-Use Development: Beyond the stadium, the plan includes 5 million square feet of development opportunities, such as retail, residential, and commercial spaces.
- Challenges: The site has been criticized for being too narrow and presenting engineering challenges due to nearby train tracks. The Bears have also expressed interest in other locations, including Arlington Heights.
This ambitious project aims to bridge the gap between downtown and the South Side, but its future depends on securing funding and the Bears’ commitment.
The proposed Chicago Bears Stadium in Bronzeville could bring significant value to South Side communities in several ways:
- Economic Growth: The project includes a mixed-use development with retail, residential, and commercial spaces, creating jobs during construction and in the long term. It could also attract businesses and tourism to the area.
- Community Revitalization: By transforming the former Michael Reese Hospital site, the stadium could help revitalize Bronzeville and surrounding neighborhoods, bridging the gap between downtown and the South Side.
- Infrastructure Improvements: The plan includes a land bridge over DuSable Lake Shore Drive, enhancing connectivity and creating new public spaces, such as parks and recreational areas.
- Civic Pride: Hosting the Chicago Bears in a state-of-the-art facility on the South Side could foster a sense of pride and identity for the community.
- Increased Property Values: Large-scale developments often lead to increased property values in the surrounding area, benefiting homeowners and local businesses.
Photo credit: Farpoint Development – Rendering of a proposed Chicago Bears stadium on the former Michael Reese site. Credit: Farpoint Development