Iowa pitches stadium funding to lure Bears from Chicago
Iowa lawmakers introduce stadium funding bill aimed at luring the Chicago Bears away from Soldier Field, though the team remains focused on Chicago-area options.
State Representative Jon Dunwell introduced legislation this week that would allow Iowa to issue public bonds for professional sports stadiums, a move clearly aimed at the Bears as they weigh their options for a new home. The bill comes as the Bears explore potential sites in Arlington Heights and other Chicago suburbs.
“We want to make sure Iowa is in the conversation,” Dunwell said. “Professional sports bring economic development and jobs.”
The Bears have grown increasingly frustrated with their lease at Soldier Field, which runs through 2033. Team officials have criticized the lakefront stadium’s limited capacity and outdated facilities compared to newer NFL venues.
Iowa’s pitch faces long odds. The Bears have deep roots on Chicago’s South Side, where they’ve played since 1971. Moving to Iowa would mean abandoning the nation’s third-largest media market for Des Moines, which ranks 72nd.
But the proposal highlights how far some states will go to land an NFL franchise. Iowa currently has no major professional sports teams, making the Bears an attractive prize despite the challenges.
“This is about more than football,” said Iowa Economic Development Authority director Debi Durham. “It’s about putting Iowa on the national map.”
The Bears declined to comment on Iowa’s overture. Team officials have said they remain focused on exploring options in the Chicago area, including their proposed $5 billion development in Arlington Heights.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has pushed to keep the Bears at Soldier Field, proposing a dome renovation that could cost taxpayers hundreds of millions. But talks between the city and team have stalled over financing details.
Iowa’s stadium funding bill faces uncertain prospects in the state legislature, where some lawmakers have questioned using taxpayer money for professional sports venues. Similar debates have played out across the country as teams seek public financing for new stadiums.
The Bears are expected to make a decision on their long-term home within the next two years.